Stools and Bottles: A Study of Character Defects is a classic AA recovery book that explores the first four Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and offers 31 daily meditations for personal reflection. Published by Hazelden, this compact hardcover helps readers better understand powerlessness, faith, personal inventory, and the character traits that can affect recovery.
Understanding the First Four AA Steps
Based on a well-known AA talk by the author of The Little Red Book, Stools and Bottles uses the image of a three-legged stool to explain important recovery principles.
The three legs represent Steps One, Two, and Three, while the seat represents the person in recovery. This memorable illustration helps readers understand how the first three Steps work together to create a foundation for continued growth.
The book also explores Step Four and the importance of examining personal attitudes, behaviors, and character defects. Its practical explanations encourage honest self-reflection without losing sight of the hope and support available through the AA program.
31 Daily Meditations for Recovery
In addition to its discussion of the Steps, Stools and Bottles includes 31 daily reminders addressing challenges commonly encountered in recovery. These short reflections encourage readers to consider how AA principles apply to their thoughts, decisions, relationships, and everyday lives.
Unlike a year-long daily reader, this book contains 31 meditations that can be revisited throughout the year. It is useful for personal study, sponsorship discussions, and those interested in strengthening their understanding of the foundations of Alcoholics Anonymous.
What You'll Find Inside
- An explanation of AA Steps One, Two, and Three using the three-legged stool illustration
- Insights into Step Four and the examination of character defects
- 31 daily reminders addressing common recovery challenges
- Practical guidance for applying AA principles to daily life
- Encouragement for honest self-reflection and personal growth
- A compact hardcover format suitable for regular reading and study
Book Details
- Full Title: Stools and Bottles: A Study of Character Defects
- Author: Anonymous
- Publisher: Hazelden Publishing
- Format: Hardcover
- Daily Meditations: 31
- Dimensions: 3-1/4 x 5-5/8 x 1/2 inches
- ISBN-13: 9780894860270
- Language: English
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Stools and Bottles about?
Stools and Bottles is an AA recovery book that explains the first four Steps, with particular attention to the foundation established by Steps One through Three and the self-examination involved in Step Four. It also includes 31 daily recovery meditations.
What does the three-legged stool represent?
In the book's illustration, the three legs of the stool represent AA Steps One, Two, and Three, while the seat represents the person in recovery. The image emphasizes the importance of these Steps working together as a foundation for recovery.
Does Stools and Bottles contain 365 daily meditations?
No. Stools and Bottles contains 31 daily reminders rather than a full year of dated meditations. Readers can return to these reflections repeatedly or use them alongside other daily recovery books.
Is Stools and Bottles an official AA publication?
No. Stools and Bottles is published by Hazelden Publishing rather than A.A. World Services. It discusses Alcoholics Anonymous principles but is not an AA Conference-approved publication.
Is Stools and Bottles useful for Step Four work?
Yes. The book addresses Step Four and the importance of examining character defects, attitudes, and behaviors. It can complement personal Step work and conversations with a sponsor, although it is not a substitute for an AA Step Four inventory guide.
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