As Bill Sees It: Unique compilation of insightful and inspiring short contributions from A.A. co-founder Bill W.

by Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder Bill W. once wrote that this collection of excerpts from his writings was “meant to serve as an aid to individual meditation and a stimulant for group discussion,” and since its publication in 1967 it has done that and more for millions of A.A. members around the world. Hundreds of brief passages — excerpted from the Big Book and other A.A. literature — address the principles of gratitude, spirituality, acceptance and a host of other themes central to living a serene life free from alcohol. With a topical index to point readers to subjects of particular interest, As Bill Sees It is an easy-to-use resource of inspiration, comfort, and humor that provides a sense of belonging for those on the path of recovery. Whether seeking insight on a specific topic or opening the book at random, readers will find that there is always more to discover. The passages are perfect for discussion in group settings or for personal reflection. As Bill Sees It, formerly published asThe A.A. Way of Life, has been approved by the General Service Conference.

366 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 3, 2014

Reviews

[Angela Doman · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am not religious, and I found a lot of the book focusing on religious matters and spiritual matters so I skimmed through a lot, but there are a lot of useful bits of advice here. If you follow the saying, take what you want and leave the rest then this is five stars but the whole book in general I am giving three stars because a lot of it doesn’t apply to me

[George Charles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading "As Bill Sees It" felt like sitting down for a long, honest chat with a wise, gentle friend who’s been through the toughest storms and lived to tell the tale. Bill W.’s words aren’t just guidance—they’re lifelines. Each short entry is packed with insight, humor, and raw humanity, and somehow, he makes the complicated process of recovery feel accessible, even comforting.

What struck me most is his ability to turn personal experience into universal truth. He writes with a warmth that pulls you in, with reflections that make you pause, think, and sometimes even tear up. I found myself nodding along, laughing quietly, and feeling a profound sense of hope I didn’t even know I needed. It’s like he’s holding a mirror to our struggles and gently saying, “You are not alone, and you can make it through.”

Bill W.’s compassion is matched by his clarity. He explains the spiritual, emotional, and practical aspects of recovery without ever feeling preachy. I came away not just inspired but deeply moved—this isn’t a book you read; it’s a book you feel.

If you want to understand resilience, empathy, and the power of shared human experience, this is a must-read. It’s a beacon of light, a nudge toward hope, and a reminder that growth can come even from the darkest places.

[Tommy Hester · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great way for those in AA and recovery to start your day.

As a recovering alcoholic with 27 months sobriety I start each morning with the readings from As Bill Sees It