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The 12 Steps. Symbols, Myths, and Archetypes of Recovery

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Drawing on art, literature, and scientific research, scholar and therapist Kikan Massara delves into the Twelve Steps – the widely used and respected program of recovery. Developed in the early 20th century to address alcoholism, the Twelve Step program was later found to be an effective tool in aiding recovery for all types of addictions and compulsive behaviors.Now for the very first time, Twelve Step recovery is linked to a visual narrative. This inspiring edition features over 150 timeless and compelling works of art ― from antiquity to the present day ― to metaphorically describe a soulful path toward healing and transformation using these principles of recovery that continue to help millions.Featuring in-depth studies by leading experts in several converging fields, the book examines the history behind the Twelve Steps, from the program's origins in Depression-era America to building a foundation for recovery that incorporates concepts identified by psychologist C. G. Jung. The volume also offers relevant insight into the meaning of addiction in today's society. With striking imagery, literary quotations, and psychological references, the Twelve Step program is reintroduced to a wider audience as timely, accessible, and constructive. At a time of radical change and opportunity, this visual edition honors the transformative power of these universal principles and thoughtfully explores ways of aligning with them.

383 pages, Hardcover

Published November 30, 2023

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Kikan Massara

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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
Profile Image for Ugnė.
667 reviews158 followers
December 23, 2025
Užtrukau beskaitydama. Labai gražios iliustracijos. Kai kurios įžvalgos ir sąsajos su C.G. Jung ar J.Campbell mintimis labai patiko. Nuobodžiausia buvo AA istorijos dalis, ir gal ne tiek dėl to, kad jau buvo žinoma, kiek dėl to, kad buvo perpasakojama paprastuoju būdu. Dabar šią dalį tiesiog praleisčiau ir geriau pasiimčiau patį originalą.
Profile Image for David Given Schwarm.
456 reviews268 followers
August 28, 2024
I love this book. The art is amazing. The approach is gentle. The Jung is rock solid. I feel like I have given away five copies and will continue to promote this for years. Seriously. Thank you for publishing this.
Profile Image for Jennifer Söderlund.
58 reviews
October 31, 2025
Den vackraste bokem jag äger, ett estetiskt mästerverk. Innehåller massvis med konstverk och andra talande, vackra visuella element. Innehållet är också väldigt väldigt högkvalitativt och vist. Fantastisk läsupplevelse. Bokens doft också, aaah. Känner du inte till Taschen bokförlag - kolla in dem!
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews

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