Understanding the Twelve Steps: An Interpretation and Guide for Recovering (Paperback)

by Terence T. Gorski (Author) "This book describes the single, most effective program for the treatment of alcoholism..." (more)
Key Phrases: Twelve Step, Higher Power, Fourth Step (more...)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal
This highly accessible guide to the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous comes at a time when the popularity of such programs are at an all-time high. Drawing on his experience as an alcohol/substance abuse counselor, Gorski ( Passages Through Recovery , HarperCollins, 1989) interprets each of the steps, and explains their importance in the recovery process. Valuable insight into how the steps should be "worked" or used by those trying to abstain from alcohol is also provided. While Melody Beattie's Codependents' Guide to the Twelve Steps (Prentice Hall Pr., 1990) focuses on the steps as they apply to people dealing with codependent issues, Gorski's primary audience is the alcoholic. However, those newly involved in other 12-step programs (i.e., Al-Anon, Gamblers Anonymous, etc.) will gain better understanding from this. Recommended for popular psychology and self-help collections.
- Linda S. Greene, Chicago
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Description

Millions of people have transformed their lives by working the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Their success has come from their ability to truly understand these principles and to apply them in their daily lives. Yet for many embarking on the road to recovery, the Steps can seem vague, even confusing.

This practical, no-nonsense guide takes the mystery out of the Twelve Steps, presenting a straightforward explanation of what each step means, as well as examples of how it translates to real life. Written by a certified alcoholism and drug abuse counselor with more than twenty years of experience, it offers a wealth of wisdom, knowledge, and genuine support for anyone in recovery.

Understanding the Twelve Steps features:

Clear, easy-to-understand interpretation of the Twelve Steps -- the vital building blocks of recovery
Checklists that summarize the tasks and objectives of each step
The Twelve Promises -- the positive changes you can expect in your life if you follow the Twelve Steps
What happens at Twelve Step meetings and why it is important to have a sponsor
The experiences, strength, and hope of other recovering people

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 189 pages
• Publisher: Fireside (April 15, 1991)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0671765582
• ISBN-13: 978-0671765583
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #158,609 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

21 of 21 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A beginners guide to the 12 steps, June 26, 2000

By A Customer

This book is a must have for any beginning 12-stepper. It gives an excellent introduction to the understanding of how the 12 steps work and the spiritual principles behind them. This book would be an excellent choice for any person in recovery, as well as a resource for any person that is not in recovery, but wishes to have an understanding of the 12 steps. It is clear, easy to understand, and complements Gorski's other books very well.

6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Understanding Yourself, May 6, 2007

By	L. M. Lawrence "LML" (London, England) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I found this book useful in offering a different perspective on the 12 step programme which was useful in my approach to working my steps.

Recomended by my sponsor. Recomended by me to mine and to you.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Real Language for Real Understanding, August 6, 2008

By	Sandy in Florida (Florida) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Understanding the Twelve Steps: An Interpretation and Guide for Recovering People (Paperback)

This book rocks! I have been so frustrated over the past few years where the Big Book is considered. It is such an amazing book, but so difficult (if not impossible) for many people of limited vocabulary or education to understand.

We have two program people in our home who absolutely cannot understand the Big Book, no matter how hard they try. As many of you know, it's not just the vocabulary, but the wording that can be difficult. As a professional with two Bachelors and a Masters, I have found the Big Book to be the most difficult book I have ever read. Many people argue that the Big Book should not be re-written. To do so would tamper with the message. While I understand the concern, it is sad that so many people are unable to comprehend all of the wonerful material because of the style in which it was written. After all, the Bible has been written in many different versions so that young people can understand it. Adults too. I believe we need the same thing with the Big Book. A "Study Big Book" perhaps.

Enter "Understanding the Twelve Steps." This is really a no-nonsense look at the twelve steps and the ideas they are trying to get across. It isn't a simplified Big Book, but a study in the 12 steps. Although the language speaks to Alcoholics, it is fantastic for people in any 12-step program. AA, Al-Anon, Alateen, CA, NA, CODA, etc. The author does a great job speaking in terms that help one visualize the ideas discussed. I think it's a fantastic supplement to any of our wonderful programs.

Peace