Sobriety: A Graphic Novel by Daniel D. Maurer

Sobriety: A Graphic Novel by Daniel D. Maurer was illustrated by Spencer Amundson. The premise of the book is use the stories of five people (Larry, Alex, Debby, Matt, and Hannah) who attend an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. As each person shares their story, the novel uses these stories to highlight the Twelve Steps of the program.

The book begins with the author and illustrator (Daniel and Spencer) who introduce the story. Throughout the novel, Daniel and Spencer inform the reader about the history of Alcoholics Anonymous. They take the reader to meet Bill W. (the founder of Alcoholics Anonymous), to Switzerland to meet Carl Jung, and then to Auschwitz to meet Victor Frankl. Finally, Daniel and Spencer take the reader to the moon to give the reader perspective.

The book emphasizes the need for a spiritual solution to addiction. Ultimately, every any addiction, mental or physical, requires a spiritual solution. The authors emphasized that the solution is spiritual, and not necessarily religious. Bill W. was a Christian. However, each person must find their own solution.

I have a few observations about this approach sharing about sobriety. First, writing a graphic novel was a novel way of presenting the idea (no pun intended.) Second, through this medium, the reader can not just read but also interact with the characters. Unfortunately, the language used was at times vulgar, but that is to be expected from former addicts. Third, the book does a great job of putting the conversations in context. The authors Daniel and Spencer interject to show the history of Alcoholics Anonymous at different points throughout the novel.

However, the authors interrupt the natural flow of the story. At times, this felt jarring. As one reads the narrative, it seems like the authors are inserted into the narrative without a natural transition. Other than this one glaring problem, the novel flows well.

I would recommend this book for people who are interested in knowing about how to deal with addiction using the Alcoholics Anonymous model. The graphic novel approach makes it easier to understand and grasp the concepts.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author and/or publisher through the Speakeasy blogging book review network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR,Part 255.