Customer Reviews

Bill W.: A Different Kind of Hero: The Story of Alcoholics Anonymous

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It is amazing how much valuable information the author has packed into this short 64pp volume. And the pictures, many of which have not appeared elsewhere in the hagiography of Bill Wilson, make this volume one of a kind. Although the publisher indicates that it is directed to the Ala-Teen and Ala-Tot audiences, those 10 to 14, this 71+ multi-diagnosed addict and alcoholic recommends it to those with the diseases of addiction and alcoholism, as well as those surrounding we chosen ones. ["I am grateful that God chose me to be an alcoholic and an addict."]

I was particularly gratified when the author correctly states how the name "Alcoholics Anonymous" came to be identified with Bill W.'s organization; e.g. Cleveland, the "Brewmaster", adopted the name from the book, and the larger organization took the name from Cleveland. White also gives Bill's drinking buddy and sponsor, Ebby Thatcher, proper credit for Bill's last drink. White also points out that Bob Smith did not recover on-the-spot from talking with Bill Wilson, but instead went directly to a bender.

White does shy away from diagnosing Bill's bi-polar disorder, but does not omit the symptoms.

This reader hopes that the author will turn his eye, and add succinct biographies of Mrs. Marty Mann and Lois Wilson to what promises to be a most worthwhile series. [Mann, who like Clarence Snyder eschewed anonymity, was responsible for more persons coming to AA than the Saturday Evening Post article.]

I will use this volume in the future with my more recalcitrant pigeons.