Big Book

Big Book Study is a Japanese initiative dedicated to sharing interpretations of the Twelve Steps and the Alcoholics Anonymous “Big Book,” drawing inspiration from the work of Joe McQuany and Charlie Parmley. Known together as Joe and Charlie, they met in 1973 and spent the following three decades explaining the Big Book and its approach to recovery. The initiative seeks to carry their spirit forward by making these interpretations available to people seeking support and understanding.

Its central offering is a program of Big Book study gatherings held in locations across Japan, with some sessions conducted online. The site documents events dating back to 2011 and lists upcoming and past meetings in cities and regions including Gifu, Kyoto, Koriyama, Osaka, and Matsumoto. It also provides study materials and information about related recovery activities, including Recovery Dynamics introductory and open classes. In addition, the site shares talks, presentations, and publications concerning addiction, recovery, spirituality, and Twelve Step practice.