How It Worked: The Story of Clarence H. Snyder by Mitchell K.
How It Worked: The Story of Clarence H. Snyder and the Early Days of Alcoholics Anonymous in Cleveland, Ohio
by Mitchell K.
First Published 1999 · AA Big Book Study Group · Paperback
Offered here is a 1999 copy of How It Worked by Mitchell K., an important biography of early Alcoholics Anonymous figure Clarence H. Snyder and a history of the development of A.A. in Cleveland, Ohio.
Clarence Snyder was sponsored by A.A. co-founder Dr. Bob Smith and became one of the central figures in A.A.’s early expansion beyond Akron. His work in Cleveland helped shape early approaches to sponsorship, newcomer instruction, and carrying the A.A. message.
Of particular historical interest, the book states that it was written at Clarence Snyder’s direct request and with his authorization. The disclaimer identifies it as “the only biography of Clarence H. Snyder authorized by him” and notes the use of archival documents, recorded interviews, and other materials authorized by Snyder.
The book also includes a foreword by noted A.A. historian Ernest Kurtz, author of Not-God: A History of Alcoholics Anonymous, dated February 22, 1998.
Book Details
Title: How It Worked
Author: Mitchell K.
Subject: Clarence H. Snyder and Early A.A. in Cleveland
Publisher: AA Big Book Study Group
First Published: 1999
ISBN: 0-9663282-0-5
Format: Paperback
Pages: 256
Condition
Good condition overall. The covers show considerable handling and shelf wear, including rubbing, scuffing, creasing, edge and corner wear, and surface marks. There is an area of heavier wear/loss near the upper left corner of the rear cover.
The interior shows moderate to heavy age toning. Several pages have creased or folded upper corners, and the final blank page has a dark stain at the upper corner. The text remains clean and readily legible.
Please review all photographs carefully for exact condition details.
Collector Significance
How It Worked remains an important source for collectors and researchers interested in Clarence Snyder, Cleveland A.A., and the development of early sponsorship practices. In addition to Snyder’s biography, the book includes appendices addressing the Oxford Group, the evolution of the Twelve Steps, early A.A. sponsorship literature, and other aspects of early Alcoholics Anonymous history.
