Recovery Reading List
Books that have helped people in recovery understand addiction, work their program, and build a life worth living. Knowledge is power—arm yourself.
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Showing 0 of 73 books
Quit Like a Woman
by Holly Whitaker
2020
Why: If you're a woman who's questioning your relationship with alcohol but AA isn't resonating, this book offers a fresh, feminist perspective on sobriety.
Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug Company That Addicted America
by Beth Macy
2018
Why: Understanding how we got here is part of healing. This book shows why you're not alone and why the system failed so many of us.
The Many Lives of Mama Love
by Lara Love Hardin
2022
Why: Shows that recovery is possible no matter how far you've fallen. An incredibly honest memoir about hitting rock bottom and climbing back up.
Dreamland: The True Tale of America's Opiate Epidemic
by Sam Quinones
2015
Why: If you want to understand the opioid crisis at a systemic level. Essential context for anyone touched by the epidemic.
Sober Curious
by Ruby Warrington
2018
Why: For those who aren't sure if they have a 'real' problem. This book gives you permission to explore sobriety without all the labels.
The Age of Fentanyl
by Dr. Brodie Ramin
2020
Why: If you or someone you love is dealing with fentanyl addiction, this provides medical context and shows that healthcare workers understand.
We Are the Luckiest
by Laura McKowen
2020
Why: The title says it all - getting sober is a gift, not a sentence. Laura's voice is raw, real, and incredibly hopeful.
Alcoholics Anonymous (Big Book)
by Alcoholics Anonymous World Services
1939
Why: Essential reading for anyone in 12-step recovery. The personal stories show you that you're not alone.
Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions
by Alcoholics Anonymous
1952
Why: When you're ready to really work the steps with a sponsor, this book breaks down what each step means and how to do it.
Daily Reflections
by Alcoholics Anonymous
1990
Why: Start every morning with a few minutes of recovery-focused reflection. Short enough to read even when you're rushed.
Living Sober
by Alcoholics Anonymous
1975
Why: The most practical AA book. Less philosophy, more 'here's what to actually do in tricky situations.'
Narcotics Anonymous Basic Text
by Narcotics Anonymous World Services
1983
Why: If you're in NA or struggling with drug addiction, this is your foundational text.
Living Clean: The Journey Continues
by Narcotics Anonymous World Services
2012
Why: For when you have some clean time and are figuring out how to actually live life sober.
It Works: How and Why
by Narcotics Anonymous World Services
1993
Why: Goes deeper into NA's steps than the Basic Text. Great for step work with a sponsor.
Just for Today: Daily Meditations for Recovering Addicts
by Narcotics Anonymous
1991
Why: Start each day centered on recovery. These short readings keep recovery at the front of your mind.
SMART Recovery Handbook
by SMART Recovery
2020
Why: If you want a secular, science-based approach without the spiritual component of 12-step.
Recovery Dharma: How to Use Buddhist Practices and Principles to Heal the Suffering of Addiction
by Recovery Dharma
2023
Why: If 12-step spirituality doesn't work for you but you want something deeper than CBT. Available as a free PDF on their website.
Celebrate Recovery Leader's Guide
by John Baker
2012
Why: If you want recovery grounded in Christian faith. Celebrate Recovery is one of the largest recovery programs in the world.
Gamblers Anonymous
by Gamblers Anonymous
1984
Why: If gambling is your addiction, this is your Big Book. Contains the 20 questions and personal stories.
Overeaters Anonymous
by Overeaters Anonymous
2001
Why: For those whose drug of choice is food. OA recognizes that food addiction is a real disease requiring the same spiritual tools as other addictions.
For Today
by Overeaters Anonymous
1982
Why: Daily recovery focus for food addiction. Pairs well with the OA Big Book.
Out of the Shadows: Understanding Sexual Addiction
by Patrick Carnes
1983
Why: If you're struggling with compulsive sexual behavior, this is the starting point. Groundbreaking when published, still essential today.
Facing the Shadow
by Patrick Carnes
2010
Why: Pairs with Out of the Shadows. This is where you actually do the work.
How Al-Anon Works for Families and Friends of Alcoholics
by Al-Anon Family Groups
2008
Why: If you love an alcoholic, this book is for you. Learn to take care of yourself regardless of whether they get sober.
Courage to Change
by Al-Anon Family Groups
1992
Why: When you love an addict, you need daily reminders to keep the focus on yourself. This book provides that.
Nar-Anon Blue Booklet: 2021 Revision
by Nar-Anon FGH Inc
2015
Why: If your loved one is addicted to drugs (not just alcohol), this is your program book.
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