A.A. has published a number of books, informational pamphlets and daily readers to help people understand more about alcoholism and the A.A. Twelve Step Programme. A.A. literature is available from our online shop and at most A.A. meetings.
Since the publication of the Big Book Alcoholics Anonymous in 1939, literature has been crucial in carrying A.A.’s message of recovery. Our books and leaflets are vital tools in our Twelfth Step work. In our materials, you can find out more about Alcoholics Anonymous, its history, and how it works.
Fondly referred to as the Big Book, Alcoholics Anonymous is A.A.’s basic text. First published in 1939 to show how the first 100 A.A. members recovered, it outlines the Twelve Step programme of recovery along with forty-two personal stories. It has been translated into over 70 languages and because it has helped such large numbers of alcoholics to recovery, it has remained largely unchanged since it was first published.
It’s main objective is to enable you to find a Power greater than yourself which will solve your problem.
The book, Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions explains the 24 basic principles of Alcoholics Anonymous. Known as the “Twelve and Twelve,” the book dedicates a chapter to each Step and each Tradition. Chapters provide an interpretation of these principles for personal recovery and the organisation of the group.
You can buy A.A. literature via our online shop. You will also find a selection of A.A. books and pamphlets available to purchase at many A.A. meetings.
Many of us in A.A. had trouble understanding the literature when we first came to A.A. It is important to remember that A.A. is not a self-help programme, and you don’t need to figure things out on your own. In A.A. meetings you will find members who are more than happy to take you through the literature and answer any questions you might have. In 2024, A.A. released the Plain Language Big Book a tool to help readers understand the Big Book Alcoholics Anonymous which was first published in 1939. There are also a number of illustrated pamphlets and video resources which you might find useful.
The Big Book Alcoholics Anonymous is A.A.’s basic text and contains the Twelve Step programme of recovery. There are many other useful A.A. books including the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, the Daily Reflections which gives you a bite-sized daily reading focussed around a theme and Living Sober which, through simple examples, shows how A.A. members live and stay sober one day at a time. You are not required to purchase any literature to get started in A.A. and many books and resources are available online.
Members from all walks of life share how they found recovery in Alcoholics Anonymous.
A.A.’s Twelve Steps offer an every-day solution to the age-old problem of alcoholism. This pamphlet breaks down the Steps in simple, easy to read language.
With retro, light-hearted illustrations and clear, plainly spoken language, this pamphlet conveys both the spirit and the practical application of our Traditions.