The Twelfth Step: A Novel by Thomas Randall · First Printing · 1957

The Twelfth Step: A Novel
Thomas Randall
First Printing · 1957
Hardcover with Original Dust Jacket

Description

Offered here is a First Printing of The Twelfth Step: A Novel by Thomas Randall, published in 1957 with its original dust jacket.

This unusual mid-century novel stands out as an early work of fiction centered around alcoholism, recovery, and the emotional struggle of men and women brought together by a shared condition. Set around a hospital for alcoholics, the story explores the difficult inner work of self-examination, honesty, and personal change.

As described on the front flap of the dust jacket, The Twelfth Step is Thomas Randall’s first novel and is “unique in the field of fiction” because all of the major characters suffer under the common bond of alcoholism. Their meeting in a hospital setting becomes the foundation for a dramatic story of relationships, motives, pain, and the search for truth within oneself.

While presented as fiction, the title and subject matter clearly place the book within the broader cultural conversation surrounding Alcoholics Anonymous, alcoholism treatment, hospitals, and recovery during the 1950s. For collectors of recovery-related literature, it is a compelling example of how alcoholism and Twelve Step themes were beginning to appear in popular fiction.

From the Dust Jacket

“The Twelfth Step is Thomas Randall’s first novel, and it is unique in the field of fiction. Mr. Randall has written a book in which all the major characters suffer under the common bond of alcoholism. It is this which brings them together at a hospital for alcoholics, and the author presents the dramatic effects of interrelationships developing from their meeting. It is a powerful story of men and women forced to examine painfully their own minds and souls for the true motivation behind their actions…”

Edition Details

Title: The Twelfth Step: A Novel
Author: Thomas Randall
Printing: First Printing
Year: 1957
Format: Hardcover
Dust Jacket: Original dust jacket present

Condition

This book is in very good condition with minimal wear. The interior is clean, with no writing or markings noted in the book.

The original dust jacket is present and shows edge wear, along with some torn areas and small pieces missing.

Please view all photos carefully for the most accurate representation of condition.

Collector’s Note

A meaningful addition for collectors of recovery-related fiction, alcoholism literature, A.A.-adjacent books, and mid-century novels dealing with addiction and spiritual/emotional change. Early fiction focused directly on alcoholism and recovery is not commonly encountered, especially in first printing format with the original dust jacket.