What is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)?

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a fellowship of individuals who share their experiences, strength, and hope with each other to help solve their common problem of alcoholism. The primary purpose of AA is to help members achieve and maintain sobriety through mutual support and adherence to a set of guiding principles known as the Twelve Steps.

Alcoholics Anonymous Literature

Daily reflection

A collection of readings that moves through the calendar year one day at a time.

Read today's reflection

First 164 pages of the
Big Book (PDF)

The first 164 pages of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous lay the groundwork for understanding alcoholism as a disease, sharing personal stories of those who have struggled with addiction, and outlining the foundational principles and steps of the AA program.

Twelve and Twelve (PDF)

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.

As Bill Sees It (PDF)

A source of comfort and inspiration, this collection of Bill W.’s writings addresses themes such as acceptance, gratitude and spirituality.

Living Sober

This practical booklet demonstrates, through simple examples, how A.A. members throughout the world live and stay sober one day at a time.

Q&A on Sponsorship

Essentially, the process of sponsorship is this: An alcoholic who has made some progress in the recovery program shares that experience on a continuous, individual basis with another alcoholic who is attempting to attain or maintain sobriety through A.A.

A.A. Literature Catalog

Contains current offerings from A.A. World Services and Grapevine in English, French and Spanish. Features a "quick reference guide" and an alphabetical index for easy searching

A.A. on-line shop

A.A. online shop, where you can purchase supportive literature, service materials, resources, and tools.

Literature Listing

Literature published by A.A. World Services, Inc., is a resource for recovering alcoholics and other individuals. In the materials, you can find out more about Alcoholics Anonymous, its history, and how it works. They are published in English, Spanish and French.

Is something missing?

If you cannot find what you are looking for, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Need help with a drinking problem?

A.A. has a solution. That is not an empty promise. A.A. has been helping alcoholics recover for more than 80 years. A.A.'s program of recovery is built on the simple foundation of one alcoholic sharing with another. If your drinking is out of control, A.A. can help.

Self assessment

How do I join AA?

Joining AA is simple and free of charge. You don’t need to sign up or pay any fees. Just attend a local meeting or reach out to the group through our website. You can come as often as you like, and you don’t need to share anything unless you’re comfortable doing so. AA is open to anyone who wants to stop drinking and is committed to recovery.