I proposed this question via email today to some of my friends who I work with in SAL.
Here’s how the email went:
Hey guys,
Thanks for the meeting on Saturday. Per the conversation we had, I wanted to at least start an email that may soon turn into an online conversation, blog, or forum.
The first question I wanted to propose we talk about is this (and then the questions can be opened up within reason):
What are books you have read about addiction recovery that you’d recommend?
Here is my list:
- What Can I Do About Him Me? – Rhyll Crowshaw
- Love You, Hate the Porn – Mark Chamberlain
- Sitting in a Rowboat Throwing Marbles at a Battle Ship (ebook)
Look forward to your feedback.
I got some good feedback so far. Here’s what I received:
I would add the Big Book and 12 & 12 to the list. Every person who wants to work the 12 steps should have read and make a continuous study of these basics. I read Step 3 in the 12 and 12 Sunday morning. I found the reread inspiring in regard to a question that had been on my mind.
Best,
Steven C.
And this:
I read “clean hands, pure heart” I liked it. I also read “nearly there” by AL canton. It was not as good in regard to recovery work, but a good story.
then he restoreth my soul was good.
BUT above all: “Wild at heart” by John Eldredge. Every man will benefit from this book. great perspectives.
Jordan H.
Here’s the list in no particular order:
Books to Read About Recovery from Sexual Addiction
- What Can I Do About Him Me? – Rhyll Crowshaw
- Love You, Hate the Porn – Mark Chamberlain
- Sitting in a Rowboat Throwing Marbles at a Battle Ship (ebook)
- The Big Book
- 12 & 12
- Clean Hands, Pure Heart
- Nearly There by Al Canton
- He Restoreth My Soul
- Wild at Heart by John Eldredge
What do you like about these books?
What other books have made an impact on your recovery?
I look forward to having more conversation about positive topics of addiction recovery.
Thanks for the comments.
UPDATE:
I just got this email from JR:
All of Brené Brown’s works are perfect for self-improvement and recovery.
Thanks!
Sam says
I recommend the Step Into Action books by SA (Sexaholics Anonymous).
Also, in addition SA, there are other 12-step organizations for sex addition. They tend to be more liberal about sobriety definitions, but, still have great materials.
The Green Book by SAA (Sex Addicts Anonymous) is awesome:
https://saa-store.org/book/
The Blue Book by SCA (Sexual Compulsives Anonymous) is also pretty good:
http://www.sca-recovery.org/literature/
I also found the following helpful:
Gentle Path Through the Twelve Steps – Carnes (workbook for going through steps; it is not specific to sex addiction)
Facing the Shadows – Carnes (also a workbook, but, not specifically about the steps; is specific to sex addiction)
Steps to Freedom – Weiss (another workbook for steps; specific to Christianity)
Water Fall Concept – Stark (good at talking about the need to stay as far away as possible from the “waterfall”).
Spiritual Exodus – Butler (he is a bit long-winded and redundant, but, he totally gets sex addiction; this book is one of the best on the topic I’ve read; I think only available at BYU Bookstore)
Any good books anyone knows specific to progressive victory over lust?
Nate says
Thanks Sam.
Here are a few articles and research about lust:
The ABC’s of Addiction Recovery
What is Lust
For me, both the White Book and the Stepping Into Action Book – 1,2, & 3 are direct and straight forward about progressive victory over lust.
Hope this helps some.
Talk soon.