The best 19 Recovery books

How do we create content on this page?
1
Recovery Books: Breathing Under Water by Richard Rohr

Breathing Under Water

Richard Rohr

What's Breathing Under Water about?

Breathing Under Water by Richard Rohr delves into the concept of spirituality and the Twelve Steps program. The book explores how embracing our flaws and vulnerabilities can lead to spiritual growth and inner healing. It offers a unique perspective on addiction and recovery, encouraging readers to find compassion and understanding for themselves and others.

Who should read Breathing Under Water?

  • Individuals struggling with addiction and seeking spiritual guidance

  • People interested in exploring the intersection of psychology and spirituality

  • Readers looking for a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to personal growth and healing


2
Recovery Books: Beyond Codependency by Melody Beattie

Beyond Codependency

Melody Beattie

What's Beyond Codependency about?

Beyond Codependency by Melody Beattie explores the concept of codependency and offers a guide for those seeking to break free from unhealthy relationships and behaviors. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, the book delves into the root causes of codependency and provides tools for self-discovery and healing. It offers a path towards establishing healthier boundaries and finding independence and self-love.

Who should read Beyond Codependency?

  • Individuals who feel trapped in unhealthy relationships

  • People who struggle with setting boundaries and saying no

  • Those who want to break free from codependent patterns and find true independence


3
Recovery Books: Addiction and Grace by Gerald G. May

Addiction and Grace

Gerald G. May

What's Addiction and Grace about?

Addiction and Grace by Gerald G. May delves into the complex relationship between addiction and spirituality. Through personal stories and insightful analysis, the book explores how the experience of addiction can lead to a deeper understanding of grace and the potential for spiritual transformation. It offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that arise in the journey towards recovery.

Who should read Addiction and Grace?

  • Individuals struggling with addiction who are seeking a deeper understanding of their condition

  • People who want to explore the spiritual and psychological aspects of addiction and recovery

  • Those interested in a holistic approach to addressing addictive behaviors, integrating grace and spirituality into the healing process


4
Recovery Books: One Breath at a Time by Kevin Griffin

One Breath at a Time

Kevin Griffin

What's One Breath at a Time about?

One Breath at a Time by Kevin Griffin is a heartfelt exploration of how the principles of mindfulness and Buddhism can be applied to the journey of addiction recovery. Through personal anecdotes and insightful teachings, the book offers a unique perspective on finding peace and healing one step at a time.

Who should read One Breath at a Time?

  • Individuals in recovery from addiction who are seeking a spiritual approach to their healing journey

  • People interested in exploring the intersection of Buddhist philosophy and the Twelve Step program

  • Those who are open to incorporating mindfulness and meditation practices into their daily lives


5
Recovery Books: Not God by Ernest Kurtz

Not God

Ernest Kurtz

What's Not God about?

Not God by Ernest Kurtz explores the history and philosophy of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). It delves into the origins of the organization, its core principles, and the spiritual aspect of recovery. Kurtz also examines the role of higher power in AA and how it has helped countless individuals overcome addiction.

Who should read Not God?

  • Individuals struggling with addiction who are seeking a deeper understanding of Alcoholics Anonymous

  • People interested in the history and philosophy behind the 12-step program

  • Those who want to explore the spiritual and existential aspects of recovery from addiction


6
Recovery Books: Dry by Augusten Burroughs

Dry

Augusten Burroughs

What's Dry about?

Dry is a memoir by Augusten Burroughs that chronicles his journey through alcoholism and recovery. With raw honesty and dark humor, Burroughs recounts his downhill spiral into addiction and his time in rehab. He shares the challenges he faced, the friendships he formed, and ultimately, the strength he found to embrace sobriety and rebuild his life.

Who should read Dry?

  • Individuals struggling with addiction
  • Those interested in personal memoirs and overcoming challenges
  • People who want to gain insight into the mind of someone battling with alcoholism

7
Recovery Books: Unwasted by Sacha Z. Scoblic

Unwasted

Sacha Z. Scoblic

What's Unwasted about?

Unwasted is a candid memoir by Sacha Z. Scoblic that explores her journey from alcoholism to sobriety. With humor and honesty, she reflects on her past drinking habits and the societal pressures surrounding alcohol consumption. Through her personal story, Scoblic challenges the notion that a life without alcohol is dull, showing that true fulfillment and joy can be found in sobriety.

Who should read Unwasted?

  • Individuals who want to explore the benefits of living a sober lifestyle

  • People who are curious about the journey of overcoming addiction

  • Readers who are looking for a candid and humorous memoir about sobriety


8
Recovery Books: Wishful Drinking by Carrie Fisher

Wishful Drinking

Carrie Fisher

What's Wishful Drinking about?

Wishful Drinking is a candid and witty memoir by Carrie Fisher, best known for her role as Princess Leia in Star Wars. In this book, Fisher shares her personal struggles with addiction, mental illness, and the ups and downs of her Hollywood upbringing. With humor and honesty, she reflects on her unconventional life and offers insight into the challenges she has faced.

Who should read Wishful Drinking?

  • Individuals who are fans of Carrie Fisher and her work
  • People who enjoy memoirs that are candid and humorous
  • Readers who are interested in stories about overcoming personal struggles

What's Each Day a New Beginning about?

Each Day a New Beginning by Karen Casey offers daily meditations and affirmations for women in recovery from addiction. Drawing from her own experiences, Casey provides insights and encouragement to help readers navigate the challenges they face and find strength in their journey toward healing and self-discovery.

Who should read Each Day a New Beginning?

  • Individuals seeking daily inspiration and motivation for personal growth

  • People in addiction recovery looking for support and encouragement

  • Those who want to cultivate a positive mindset and practice self-care


10
Recovery Books: Pass It On by Alcoholics Anonymous

Pass It On

Alcoholics Anonymous

What's Pass It On about?

Pass It On by Alcoholics Anonymous is a memoir that chronicles the founding and growth of the worldwide fellowship. Through personal accounts and reflections, it offers insight into the principles and practices of Alcoholics Anonymous, and how individuals can find hope and recovery through the support of others.

Who should read Pass It On?

  • Individuals struggling with alcoholism or addiction

  • People who want to understand the principles and practices of Alcoholics Anonymous

  • Those who are interested in personal growth and self-improvement


What's Codependents' Guide to the Twelve Steps about?

Codependents' Guide to the Twelve Steps by Melody Beattie is a comprehensive and insightful book that takes a deep dive into the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and applies them to the unique challenges faced by codependents. Through personal stories, practical exercises, and expert guidance, Beattie offers a path to healing and recovery for those struggling with codependency.

Who should read Codependents' Guide to the Twelve Steps?

  • Individuals struggling with codependency and looking for a step-by-step guide to recovery

  • People who want to understand and break free from unhealthy relationship patterns

  • Those seeking practical tools and exercises to cultivate self-awareness and self-care


What's How Al-Anon Works for Families & Friends of Alcoholics about?

How Al-Anon Works for Families & Friends of Alcoholics by Al-Anon Family Groups provides a comprehensive guide for those affected by someone else's drinking. It offers insight into the nature of alcoholism, the impact it has on loved ones, and practical steps for finding support and creating positive change.

Who should read How Al-Anon Works for Families & Friends of Alcoholics?

  • Individuals who have a loved one struggling with alcoholism

  • People who want to understand the impact of alcoholism on family and friends

  • Those seeking guidance on how to cope with the effects of someone else's drinking


13
Recovery Books: Addiction and Grace by Gerald G. May

Addiction and Grace

Gerald G. May

What's Addiction and Grace about?

Addiction and Grace by Gerald G. May explores the complex relationship between addiction and spirituality. Drawing on his experience as a psychiatrist and a contemplative, May delves into the nature of addiction, the role of grace in recovery, and the potential for spiritual transformation. Through insightful reflections and real-life stories, the book offers a unique perspective on the healing journey for those struggling with addiction.

Who should read Addiction and Grace?

  • Individuals struggling with addiction and seeking a deeper understanding of its underlying causes

  • People who want to explore the intersection of psychology and spirituality in the context of addictive behaviors

  • Those who are open to a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to addressing and overcoming addiction


14
Recovery Books: Not God by Ernest Kurtz

Not God

Ernest Kurtz

What's Not God about?

Not God by Ernest Kurtz explores the history and evolution of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and its approach to addiction and recovery. Kurtz delves into the spiritual and philosophical underpinnings of AA, challenging the notion that the program is solely about surrendering to a higher power. It offers a thought-provoking perspective on the complexities of addiction and the search for meaning and purpose in life.

Who should read Not God?

  • Individuals struggling with addiction who are seeking a deeper understanding of the 12-step program

  • People interested in the history and evolution of Alcoholics Anonymous

  • Those looking for a spiritual approach to recovery from addiction


15
Recovery Books: One Breath at a Time by Kevin Griffin

One Breath at a Time

Kevin Griffin

What's One Breath at a Time about?

One Breath at a Time by Kevin Griffin is a profound exploration of the intersection between mindfulness and addiction recovery. Drawing from his personal experience and Buddhist teachings, Griffin offers practical insights and tools for individuals on the path to sobriety. This book serves as a beacon of hope and guidance for anyone seeking to break free from the cycle of addiction.

Who should read One Breath at a Time?

  • Individuals in recovery from addiction who are seeking a spiritual approach to their healing

  • People interested in exploring the intersection of Buddhism and the Twelve Step program

  • Those looking for practical tools and insights to support their journey towards sobriety and inner peace


16
Recovery Books: Overeaters Anonymous by Overeaters Anonymous

Overeaters Anonymous

Overeaters Anonymous

What's Overeaters Anonymous about?

Overeaters Anonymous is a guidebook for individuals struggling with compulsive overeating. Written by the members of Overeaters Anonymous, this book offers personal stories, practical tips, and a 12-step program to help readers overcome their addiction to food and achieve a healthier relationship with eating. It provides a supportive and non-judgmental approach to tackling the underlying issues behind overeating.

Who should read Overeaters Anonymous?

  • Individuals struggling with overeating and food addiction

  • People seeking a supportive community and tools for recovery

  • Those looking for a spiritual approach to addressing compulsive eating habits


17
Recovery Books: Pass It On by Alcoholics Anonymous

Pass It On

Alcoholics Anonymous

What's Pass It On about?

Pass It On is a memoir by Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder, Bill W., that chronicles the creation and growth of the organization. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, the book offers insight into the principles and practices of A.A., as well as the profound impact it has had on the lives of countless individuals struggling with alcoholism.

Who should read Pass It On?

  • Individuals struggling with alcoholism who are seeking a path to recovery

  • People who want to understand the principles and practices of Alcoholics Anonymous

  • Friends and family members of individuals dealing with alcohol addiction


18

What's The Addictive Personality about?

The Addictive Personality by Craig Nakken explores the psychological and emotional factors that contribute to addictive behaviors. Drawing on his own experience as a recovering addict and years of counseling others, Nakken delves into the traits and patterns common among individuals with addictive personalities. He offers valuable insights and practical advice for understanding and overcoming addiction.

Who should read The Addictive Personality?

  • Individuals struggling with addictive behaviors

  • People who want to understand the psychological and emotional factors underlying addiction

  • Therapists, counselors, and mental health professionals looking to enhance their knowledge of addictive personalities


19
Recovery Books: Unwasted by Sacha Z. Scoblic

Unwasted

Sacha Z. Scoblic

What's Unwasted about?

Unwasted is a candid memoir by Sacha Z. Scoblic that explores her journey from a heavy drinker to a sober individual. With humor and honesty, Scoblic reflects on her past and delves into the societal norms and pressures surrounding alcohol consumption. She challenges the idea that a life without alcohol is dull and shows that sobriety can lead to a fulfilling and meaningful existence.

Who should read Unwasted?

  • Individuals who want to explore the benefits of living a sober lifestyle

  • People who are curious about the challenges and rewards of overcoming addiction

  • Readers who are interested in personal growth and self-discovery


Related Topics

Recovery Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Recovery book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Breathing Under Water as the ultimate read on Recovery.

What are the Top 10 Recovery books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Breathing Under Water by Richard Rohr
  • Beyond Codependency by Melody Beattie
  • Addiction and Grace by Gerald G. May
  • One Breath at a Time by Kevin Griffin
  • Not God by Ernest Kurtz
  • Dry by Augusten Burroughs
  • Unwasted by Sacha Z. Scoblic
  • Wishful Drinking by Carrie Fisher
  • Each Day a New Beginning by Karen Casey
  • Pass It On by Alcoholics Anonymous

Who are the top Recovery book authors?

When it comes to Recovery, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Richard Rohr
  • Melody Beattie
  • Gerald G. May
  • Kevin Griffin
  • Ernest Kurtz