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The Multilith Prepublication Manuscript
of the book Alcoholics Anonymous
(also known as the "Original Manuscript")
Receive the Prepublication Manuscript using email
About This Book
Around the end of 1938 and the beginning of 1939, a prepublication multilith manuscript of the book Alcoholics Anonymous was circulated for suggestions and comments.
The purpose of this book is to allow you to easily compare this prepublication manuscript to the later editions of the Big Book. ®
If there is no difference, only one line is printed and that line is shown as it appears in the later editions. Where there is a difference between them, this book shows two lines. The top line is the text as it appears in the later editions, and the bottom line shows the prepublication manuscript. Words that are different are highlighted in bold print and are underlined.
For example, on page 58 of the later editions, the third paragraph begins:
"At some of these we balked. We thought we could find an easier, softer way. But we could not."
On the other hand, the prepublication manuscript says:
"At some of these you may balk. You may think you can find and easier, softer way. We doubt if you can."
This book makes the comparison in the following way:
19 At some of these we balked. We thought we could
19 At some of these you may balk. You may think you can
20 find an easier, softer way. But we could not.
20 find an easier, softer way. We doubt if you can.
Line numbers are provided for quick comparison to the later editions.
Any text which might still be under copyright protection in the United States is indicated by the use of the symbol: +.
It also contains a typed reproduction of the manuscript with the original letters, spaces, punctuation and typos (as nearly as humanly possible).
Why do I need to get this book by email? Why can’t I just download it directly?
The website, page164.org, originates in the United States where the book is in the public domain. However, we have been informed that since it can be viewed worldwide, it may constitute publishing in other countries. We want to avoid any controversy.
There is a section of Frequently Asked Questions about the prepublication manuscript project and its editors.
This book is not a substitute for the latest edition of the book Alcoholics Anonymous. If you don't have one, we strongly suggest that you get one and read it! This volume has only one of the personal stories found at the end of the prepublication manuscript or in later editions. Also, the current edition will contain very important appendices.
There is a section of Frequently Asked Questions about prepublication manuscript project and its editors.