The Big Bender by Charles Clapp Jr. - First Edition 1938 - ODJ

The Big Bender

by

Charles Clapp Jr.

First Edition 1938

With the Original Dust Jacket

This rare highly sought after book has been well recognized by AA collectors as a “must have”.

Charles Clapp Jr. tells of his struggle with alcoholism and his early experience with the Oxford Group and sobriety.

Charles Clapp was an Oxford Grouper, who AA founder Bill W had helped get sober in October of 1935. Clapp had been associated with Sam Shoemaker, but could not stay sober until he got help from Bill. "The Big Bender" relates that story. Clapp was from Bedford Hills. 

"The Big Bender" by Charles Clapp Jr. is a notable work within the literature associated with the Oxford Group, a Christian movement focused on personal transformation through spiritual practices. This book is often regarded as a candid and personal account of Charles Clapp Jr.'s own experiences with alcoholism and his recovery through the principles promoted by the Oxford Group.

Charles Clapp Jr. uses his own life story as a framework to discuss the devastating effects of alcoholism on his personal and professional life. His narrative is engaging and serves as a powerful testament to the struggles and realities of living with alcohol addiction.

The book illustrates how the Oxford Group’s core principles, such as honesty, purity, unselfishness, and love, played a crucial role in Clapp’s journey towards recovery. It highlights the group's approach to spiritual renewal, which encouraged members to change their lives by forming a closer relationship with God, making moral inventories, and making amends for past wrongs.

Written during the time when the Oxford Group was at its most influential in the realm of addiction recovery, Clapp’s book provides a historical perspective on the methods and impact of the group before the formal establishment of Alcoholics Anonymous.

"The Big Bender" by Charles Clapp Jr. is valued for its raw and honest portrayal of the journey from addiction to recovery. It remains an important piece of literature for understanding the personal impact of the Oxford Group's teachings and the broader history of spiritual approaches to treating alcoholism.

This book is in very good condition with minimal wear to the cover. There is some handwriting on the first page of the book. There is no other writing or markings in the book. The dust jacket has experienced wear with tears and stains.

Please view all of the photos for the conditions.