The self-help landmark that has led millions from addiction into revitalized lives is now faithfully condensed and introduced by PEN Award-winning historian Mitch Horowitz. Since its publication in 1939, Alcoholics Anonymous has brought a ray of light into the world, rescuing countless people the grinding compulsion of addiction and inspiring the global "twelve-step" movement. Now, historian and New Thought writer Mitch Horowitz provides a concise yet wholly faithful abridgement and introduction to the "Big Book," suited to newcomers who are first encountering its ideas, veterans looking for a refresher, and anyone curious about this classic of spiritual self-renewal. The genius of Alcoholics Anonymous is that its twelve-step program can be applied to any addiction or area of life where one is crippled by compulsion, whether gambling, drugs, debt-spending, chronic overeating, or whatever endangers your wellness and deters you from a life of vitality.