AA to Z or Steps of Transformation

AA to Z: An Addictionary of the 12-Step Culture

Author: Christopher Cavanaugh

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 well-known 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) is explained with clarity, insight, and humor. Conversational, witty, and engaging, AA to Z is a must-have for all 12-step participants and their loved ones, and it offers the uninitiated a fascinating firsthand look at one of the most influential yet least-documented cultural movements of our time.

Library Journal

AA to Z is a reader-friendly paperback chock full of useful information for new Alcoholics Anonymous participants, students of 12-step programs, and the general reader curious to know how such programs operate. Cavanaugh, managing editor for Reader's Digest General Books, presents a brief overview of AA's beginnings, its connection to the Oxford movement, and its enduring steps to sobriety. "Through the years," Cavanaugh states, "the people who live a 12-step life have formed a unique culture, with a language, history, and set of customs all its own. This book attempts to document that culture." Introductory comments are followed by "Jack's Story," a prototype of addiction and recovery, as well as an alphabetic "addictionary" of AA jargon. In A Sponsorship Guide, which is set up in interview format, a group of 17 active, experienced sponsors, primarily from New York City and the West Coast, comment on issues such as same-sex sponsorship, the place of friendship in a sponsor/sponsee relationship, gay sponsorship, and qualities of a good sponsor. Each of the 12 steps is discussed, as well as various methods for working them with sponsees. Readers are assured that there are many ways to be an effective sponsor and that no one path to success exists. Included are a suggested reading list and step worksheets. Although the author remains anonymous, she reveals that she is a Los Angeles screenwriter and director.Catherine T. Charvat, John Marshall Lib., Alexandria, Va.

See also: Feel Good or Is it Just a Phase

Steps of Transformation: An Orthodox Priest Explores the Twelve Steps

Author: Meletios Webber

Addictions and struggles with the passions are rampant in our culture. Fr. Meletios Webber, an Orthodox priest with a doctorate in counseling, helps us to understand addiction and explores ways to overcome it. He clearly and skillfully explains the Twelve Steps of the Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous. In correlating the Twelve Steps with basic Orthodox theology, Fr. Mel identifies the implication of the Twelve Steps for Orthodox, and for all Christians. Using examples from the life of the Orthodox Church, he shows how the Steps can be a valuable resource for our own spiritual journey.