Customer Reviews

A Biography of Mrs. Marty Mann: The First Lady of Alcoholics Anonymous

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As its title implies, A Biography Of Mrs. Marty Mann, The First Lady Of Alcoholics Anonymous is the uplifting life story of a singularly strong and incredible woman - one who crusaded to teach all of America, men and women, that alcoholism is a treatable disease. Her life, which spanned most of the 20th century encompasses despair, hope, and redemption through crusading to battle the pernicious evils of alcoholism, and perhaps just as bad, ignorance about the nature of alcoholism. In Marty's own words, "People who dislike the terms 'alcoholic' and 'alcoholism' should consider the alternative of not knowing what was the matter with them and could believe only that they were hopelessly insane." An unforgettable biography of one of America's most fervent public-health reformers.

I loved this book. It is well-written, expertly researched and completly honest.As a recovered person myself, I thoroughly enjoyed the the weaving of historical accounts of the early days of AA and NCA. Even without that, the story of Marty Mann was impressive and powerful. The account of the founding, growth, growing pains and success of NCA was a primer on how to get an impossible job done. Many other historical facts that were intertwined throughout the book provided a sense of reality about developments in our country that are rarely discussed.

My thanks to the authors for writing a book I will treasure it and make it a permamnent part of my personal library.

This was written with the language of the heart... and was informative, fascinating, and well done in every way. I enjoyed the pictures too. I felt privileged to see inside this fabulous woman's life.

This a fascinating read on so many fronts - its presentation of the history of alcoholism and treatment of the disease and the person who was Mrs. Marty Mann - as well as the impeccable research and engaging writing style. It will be especially helpful to family members who are grappling with a loved one who has the disease of alcoholism. Lisa Frederiksen, author of If You Loved Me, You'd Stop! What You Really Need to Know When Your Loved One Drinks Too Much and Loved One in Treatment? Now What!

Riveting and educational! A page turner! Marty Mann was an incredible woman and we finally get to read about her life in detail. This is a must read for those who are recovering from alcoholism, those affected by alcoholism, social service and public health providers and legislatures. We have much to learn from Marty Mann and we must continue her mission today.

An excellent scholarly biography of an important early member of Alcoholics Anonymous. Every detail is backed by references. Much of the public's awareness of alcoholism is due to the untiring efforts of this woman. A "must read" for anyone touched by alcoholism, and for the general public that need to know that alcoholism is a disease.

I enjoyed Marty's story so much. She was such an intelligent, attractive, successful woman, and yet alcohol brought her to a point of utter despair and poverty. I could truly relate to how it feels to have so much and yet not be able to save yourself from alocholism. With the help of AA I have found my life again, and continue to grow in all areas of my life. Reading Marty's story was so good for my self esteem and confidence. It truly emphasizes that alcoholism is a disease and not a moral issue. I enjoyed this book so much I stayed up until 2am the first night I started reading it. This has been a good read for me! I would recommend it to females in AA especially.

A dramatic and impressive life story worth telling. Fascinating also as a history of the medical and public perception of alcoholism. Well researched but at times the writing style seems a bit too simplistic considering the topic and audience.

Marty Mann's biography is a wonderful historical resource for those interested in AA history. There is much to be learned, and even more to be enjoyed.

Excellent story of an American hero committed to change society attitude towards the disease of alcoholism. A must read for anyone who is interested in volunteerism.