“The Big Book” is the book that all 12-Step programs are based upon.  The actual title of the book is “Alcoholics Anonymous,” (which is where the name of the first 12-Step groups came from), but over time it has come to be known as The Big Book.  It was written in 1939 by Bill Wilson.  After years of suffering from the disease of alcoholism and failing to get well through the methods of treatment available at that time, “Bill W.” discovered that he was only able to conquer his addiction with a spiritual solution.  With the help of his Higher Power, Bill found that by facing the truth about himself, making amends for the wrongs he had committed in his life, and helping other alcoholics, the desire to drink left him.  As he told others with the same condition what had happened to him, many of them also found relief.  Bill then decided to write The Big Book so he would be able to get his message of hope out to even more people.

The whole Big Book is available online for free, or you can purchase one for around $10 through the AA website (see “12-Step Links” at the side of this page if interested in either).  The first half of the book contains a detailed description of the disease of alcoholism, arguments explaining why a spiritual solution is the only treatment that will work for many people, and the information needed in order to apply the 12-Steps to our daily lives.  The rest of the book is dedicated to the personal stories of people who have conquered their addiction by following the suggestions presented in the book.  If you only plan on getting one book in program, this would be the one to get.