From A.A. World Services:
For years, A.A. members have expressed a need for a Plain Language Big Book. Based on the shared experience of A.A. members, some people may not have regular contact with other A.A. members to help them understand the A.A. program of recovery and the specific vocabulary as it is used throughout the original book Alcoholics Anonymous.
Other people have a hard time reading, especially books that were written long ago. This Plain Language Big Book is written in simpler language to support readers in their recovery.
The Plain Language Big Book covers the core content of what is the “abridged version” (the edition without personal stories) of the original Big Book…This new text is not intended to replace the much beloved Big Book.
The Plain Language Big Book is a tool to help readers understand the book Alcoholics Anonymous, which was first published in 1939. This new book is designed so that the A.A. Twelve Step program of recovery from alcoholism may be easily understood and accessible by all people who have a desire to stop drinking…The Plain Language Big Book has been written to present the original ideas and same spiritual message of the Big Book, Alcoholics Anonymous.
This book is published in accordance with Advisory Actions passed by substantial unanimity of the General Service Conference (GSC) of Alcoholics Anonymous. In 2021, the 71st GSC advised that this book be developed. Progress reports, then sample chapters were reviewed at the 72nd and 73rd GSCs.
The final draft of the Plain Language Big Book was reviewed and approved by substantial unanimity at the 74th GSC, in April 2024. This process and outcome adopts this text as Conference Approved Literature.
The Plain Language Big Book is A.A. General Service Conference-approved literature.
