Rogers Burnham: The Original Man Behind Bill W. - Biography & Historical Insights for AA Enthusiasts & History Buffs

I wasn't expecting too much of this book because it is self-published and because I thought most of the territory had probably already been trod in the existing "origins of AA" history publications. I bought it because I needed a little more information about something that I saw in a snippet view of the book.But I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it very much exceeded my expectations; it covers some new territory and newly revealed information; and it is quite interesting to boot.Not only does this book cover how Bill Wilson's brother-in-law Rogers Burnham influenced Bill and the direction that AA took, it also offers new insight to other friends and acquaintances of Bill's and how they fit into the picture. It also gives substantial insight as to how the Swedenborgian religion influenced AA, possibly even more than the Oxford Group did.The book also goes into detail about how the unique setting of Vermont and Vermonters influenced Bill and AA in character and demeanor and outlook. Please note that there are two subtitles to the book, and the second one is not listed here on Amazon. The second subtitle is "THE ROLE OF VERMONT IN ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS HISTORY". The book is divided into two parts; the first half is about the Burnhams and Bill Wilson's extended set of friends and acquaintances. The second half of the book is about the unique way that Vermont and its culture had a major influence on the evolution of AA and the way it ended up,I think this book is definitely worth it to anyone interested in any part of the subject matter. It also has a lot of great photos. I think it is well worth the price, and I recommend it.