Alcoholics Anonymous Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions - First Printing from 1953 - ODJ
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions
First Edition, First Printing (1953) – Alcoholics Anonymous Publishing, Inc.
With Original Dust Jacket
Offered here is a First Edition, First Printing of Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, published in 1953 by Alcoholics Anonymous Publishing, Inc. This is the true first appearance of the Twelve & Twelve, marked on the copyright page “First Edition D-C.”
This copy is the Alcoholics Anonymous Publishing issue — identifiable by:
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Blue and black streaked original dust jacket
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Blue boards with black spine
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Gold spine lettering: “Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions”
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No publisher listed on the spine
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Title page listing publisher as Alcoholics Anonymous Publishing, Inc.
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No author named on the title page
This distinguishes it from the Harper & Brothers issue (green/black jacket, “Anonymous” listed as author, Harper imprint on spine).
Historical Significance
Published in April 1953 and introduced at the Third General Service Conference, the Twelve & Twelve expanded upon the spiritual principles first set forth in the 1939 Alcoholics Anonymous (“Big Book”).
Within ten days of announcement to A.A. groups, nearly 6,000 copies had already been ordered — marking the beginning of one of the most influential works in recovery literature.
The book deepens understanding of:
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The Twelve Steps — the personal program of recovery
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The Twelve Traditions — the principles safeguarding A.A.’s unity and growth
It also represents an important publishing moment in A.A. history, as Works Publishing had just been renamed Alcoholics Anonymous Publishing, Inc. Harper & Brothers simultaneously distributed the book to non-A.A. outlets, helping broaden public awareness of the Fellowship.
Condition
Book: Very Good condition. Minimal wear and light staining to covers. Clean interior. No writing or markings.
Dust Jacket: Good condition (original). Edge wear. Some fading and staining. Structurally intact.
Please review all photos carefully for condition details.
A cornerstone title in A.A. history and an essential volume for collectors of early Alcoholics Anonymous literature. First printing copies with original dust jackets remain increasingly difficult to locate in solid collectible condition.
