Not God: A History of Alcoholics Anonymous

by Ernest Kurtz

Book Overview

A fascinating account of the discovery and program of Alcoholics Anonymous, Not God contains anecdotes and excerpts from the diaries, correspondence, and occasional memoirs of AA's early figures.

The most complete history of A.A. ever written, this book is a fast-moving and authoritative account of the discovery and development of the program and fellowship that we know today as Alcoholics Anonymous.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B000Y5B6U4
• ISBN13: 9780894860652
• Release Date: April 1991
• Publisher: Hazelden Publishing & Educational Services
• Length: 456 Pages
• Weight: 1.13 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.4" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

Divinel Fascination

Whether you are an alcoholic or not, this is a divine program given to those that suffer from a disease called alcoholism. This book is probably the most detailed account leading up to the birth of Alcoholics Anonymous in 1935 up to around 1975 (book published in 1979). Although not A.A. approved literature, I recommend this as a MUST read. Especially, to those that are recovered from a seemingly hopeless state-of-mind & body. It will BLOW you away with inspiration. Chris Y. sobriety date 8/17/05 home group: "There is a Solution," Saturday Nights, 7:30pm, Bayside Chapel, 965 West Bay Ave., Barnegat, NJ

Deeper Understanding

This is an excellent book giving a deeper understanding of Alcoholics Anonymous. To have a chronicled background from which the program and 12 steps originated is invaluable. It is useful for both personal study and also for professional information. As a recovering alcoholic using the program of alcoholics anonymous, I have a much greater appreciation for how the 12 step process works and the hours and time that previous participants put in so we can have this option available to us. As a professional, I have a greater understanding of the context and history for why this works and why science and medicine have not been able to effectively help alcoholics so far. Kurtz's wonderfully rich details gives a full 360 view of why and how alcoholics can recover using the 12 steps of alcoholics anonymous.

Not God

Wonderfully insightful for all. Splendidly illustrates the history and formation of AA and it's painstaking growth through the early formative years of AA. A great read!

Inciteful history that provides a good read.

Not God provides an inciteful and thoughtful study of the history of AA. It will provide the experienced 12 stepper further understanding of their program. Additionally, readers not already conversant with the subject will learn and grow from this introduction.

Excellent History and a Great Read

Kurtz masterfully captures the early days of AA. This book is a must read for students of the 12 Steps and anyone interested in this spiritual program of recovery that has improved the lives of millions. -- Frank D., Author of The Annotated AA Handbook