The Third Strike by Jerry Gray
The Third Strike
by Jerry Gray
Edited by Glenn Clark
With a Foreword by Starr Daily
First Edition — 1949
Abingdon-Cokesbury Press
Includes original reader postcard
Description
This is an original First Edition (1949) of The Third Strike by Jerry Gray, a powerful and deeply unsettling early memoir of alcoholism written with exceptional psychological insight and literary force.
The Third Strike is a partial autobiography, focusing exclusively on Gray’s long and devastating struggle with alcoholism. The narrative opens in New York City in 1929, as the author—near the end of a month-long binge—contemplates suicide. From the Bowery to Battery Park, and later awakening in Bellevue Hospital, Gray offers an unflinching examination of his inner life, laying bare the mental torment, obsession, and despair that define alcoholic bondage.
Unlike many recovery narratives, this book offers no moralizing and no simple conclusions. Gray “points to no moral—he simply states the facts,” allowing the reader to confront the raw reality of addiction and self-destruction.
Literary & Historical Significance
A rare first-person psychological account of alcoholism from the mid-20th century. Written with striking honesty and literary skill. Edited by Glenn Clark, noted spiritual writer and editor. Foreword by Starr Daily, who frames the book as both tragic and vitally important. Published just as Alcoholics Anonymous was gaining wider recognition. Later reissued by Hazelden, underscoring its lasting relevance in recovery literature.
Although not an AA book, The Third Strike stands firmly within the pre- and early-recovery literary tradition, helping to illuminate the inner suffering that AA sought to address.
Special Feature
Original publisher postcard included, inviting readers to submit reviews—an uncommon survival and a nice piece of period publishing ephemera.
Condition
Overall condition: Very Good. Minimal wear consistent with age. Name handwritten on the first page. No other writing, markings, or underlining. Binding tight; pages intact and clean
Please review all photographs carefully for exact condition details.
