AA to Z: Addictionary to the 12-Step Culture (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780385483407)

What does a codependent say to his mate when he wakes up? Good morning, how am I? -- overhead at a Codependents Anonymous meeting

Throughout the world today, more than two million alcoholics and hundreds of thousands of drug addicts, compulsive overeaters, sex addicts, compulsive gamblers, codependents, and other addicts abstain from their addiction, having found a new life by practicing the 12-step program of recovery developed by Alcoholics Anonymous. Over the years, their practices have evolved into a way of life -- the 12-Step Culture."AA To Z" is the first book to document the richness and diversity of the lives of recovering people and to provide an encyclopedic look at this unique subculture. Less self-help than enlightenment and entertainment, "AA To Z" is comprised of real-life stories of recovering addicts as well as an "addictionary" of recovery terminology. Everything from the wellknown slogan "One Day at a Time" to more esoteric terms like "pigeon" (a lovingly insulting term for a newcomer to the program) and "Wharf Rats" (sober Deadheads) are explained with clarity, insight, and humor.

How it works, you ask -- slowly and well. -- Cooper, a member of A.A.

Conversational, witty, and engaging, "AA To Z" is must-have for all 12-step participants and their loved ones, and offers the uninitiated a fascinating firsthand look at one of the most influential yetleast-documented cultural movements of our time.

Author: Christopher Cavanaugh
ISBN-10: 0385483406
ISBN-13: 9780385483407
Publisher: Crown Publishing Group (NY)
Language: English
Published: 02/17/1998
Pages: 208
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.60lbs
Size: 8.48h x 5.52w x 0.53d

Review Citation(s):
Library Journal 02/01/1998 pg. 103