Narcotics Anonymous Second Edition from 1982
Narcotics Anonymous — Second Edition (1982)
C.A.R.E.N.A. Publishing Co. · Hardcover · Inscribed Copy · No Dust Jacket
Offered here is a collectible hardcover copy of the Second Edition of Narcotics Anonymous, published in 1982 by C.A.R.E.N.A. Publishing Co. This is an important early edition of the N.A. Basic Text, issued during a formative period in the growth of Narcotics Anonymous literature, fellowship identity, and recovery history.
The Narcotics Anonymous Basic Text became the central book of the N.A. program, presenting the experience, strength, and hope of recovering addicts through the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions adapted for Narcotics Anonymous. This Second Edition includes the familiar early structure of the Basic Text, with chapters such as “Who Is An Addict?”, “What Is the N.A. Program?”, “How It Works,” “The Twelve Traditions of Narcotics Anonymous,” “Recovery and Relapse,” and a collection of personal recovery stories.
This copy is especially interesting because of the handwritten inscription on the first blank page, dated 10-1-84, just two years after the 1982 copyright. The inscription reads in part:
“May your life be as good as the reading in this book.”
It is signed by several individuals, including what appears to read “Your friend & fellow N.A.” along with names including Buddy, Alvin, and Nick Cipriani or similar. These early recovery inscriptions give this copy a personal fellowship connection and show how the book was being gifted and shared within N.A. circles during the early 1980s.
The dark blue hardcover boards feature the gold N.A. emblem on the front cover, with gold lettering to the spine reading Narcotics Anonymous — Second Edition — C.A.R.E.N.A. The book presents well and remains a strong collectible example, though it no longer retains its original dust jacket.
Edition Details
Title: Narcotics Anonymous
Edition: Second Edition
Publisher: C.A.R.E.N.A. Publishing Co.
Copyright: 1982
Format: Hardcover
Dust Jacket: Not present
ISBN: 0-912075-00-7
Notable Feature: Early handwritten N.A. fellowship inscription dated 10-1-84
Condition
This book is in very good condition overall. The dark blue boards remain attractive with light general handling wear. The gold N.A. emblem on the front cover and spine lettering are still visible and present nicely.
There are handwritten inscriptions on the first blank page. No other writing or markings are noted inside the book. Interior pages are clean and well-preserved. Binding is sound.
The original dust jacket is not included.
Please view all photos carefully for the most accurate representation of condition.
Collector’s Note
Early hardcover editions of Narcotics Anonymous are increasingly desirable among collectors of 12 Step literature and recovery history. This 1982 Second Edition represents an important stage in the development of N.A.’s written message, and this copy carries added character through its early 1984 fellowship inscription.
A meaningful addition for collectors of Narcotics Anonymous literature, early Basic Text editions, and broader 12 Step recovery history.
