Signed by Charles Clapp Jr. - Drinking’s Not The Problem - 1949 - ODJ
Drinking’s Not The Problem
By Charles Clapp Jr., 1949 First Printing, Signed & Inscribed with Dust Jacket
This is an exceptionally rare first printing of Drinking’s Not The Problem (1949) by Charles Clapp Jr., complete with its original dust jacket and inscribed, author-signed first page. The personal inscription, dated February 11, 1950, reads:
“To Dorothy + John Paris(?) – With Best Wishes. Charles Clapp Jr. 11 Feb 1950.”
Signed copies of this title are exceedingly scarce, making this an extraordinary piece for collectors of early alcoholism literature, AA history, and recovery-related works.
Historical & Literary Significance
When published in 1949, Drinking’s Not The Problem was groundbreaking—it was the first book written specifically for the “potential alcoholic”, addressing those at risk before full-blown alcoholism took hold. Charles Clapp Jr., a layman but deeply connected to the recovery world, wrote in a plainspoken, no-nonsense style, drawing on his own experiences and research from leading organizations, including the Yale Plan Clinic.
In this book, Clapp:
- Identifies traits of a “potential alcoholic” and explains why drinking itself isn’t the core issue.
- Offers practical guidance on avoiding a seemingly inevitable slide into alcoholism.
- Discusses faith, new interests, and psychiatric treatment as tools for prevention.
- Explores the role of Alcoholics Anonymous and medical clinics in recovery.
Notable Historical Context
Charles Clapp Jr. was closely tied to early Alcoholics Anonymous history. He was an Oxford Grouper and could not maintain sobriety until helped by AA co-founder Bill W. in 1935. His connection to Sam Shoemaker and the early spiritual roots of AA make his works especially significant. Clapp also authored The Big Bender and Drunks Are Square Pegs.
Condition
- Book: Excellent condition with minimal wear.
- Inscription: Clean, bold signature on the first page.
- Pages: No writing, highlighting, or margin notes.
- Dust Jacket: Original, excellent condition with only minor edge wear and light staining.
- Binding: Tight and square.
Why This Copy is Special
- First Printing (1949) – Rare in any condition.
- Signed & Inscribed by the Author – Personal inscriptions by Clapp are extremely hard to find.
- Original Dust Jacket – Often missing from surviving copies.
- Historical Recovery Literature – Directly tied to early AA history and alcoholism prevention efforts.
Excerpt from the Publisher’s Summary
“Almost everyone who drinks has wondered if he might ‘have trouble with liquor’ at some future date… In this book you will find a very definite description of a potential alcoholic, and you will be able to judge for yourself if you have these basic characteristics… This book will make sensible reading for anyone who thinks about drinking as he lifts a glass, and it may help to prevent a potential from suffering all the agonies of alcoholism.”
Note: Please review all provided photographs for details on condition.
