The fourth edition includes twenty-four new stories that provide contemporary sharing for newcomers seeking recovery from alcoholism in AA during the early years of the 21st century. Sixteen stories are retained from the third edition, including the "Pioneers of AA" section, which helps the reader remain linked to AA's historic roots, and shows how early members applied this simple but profound program that helps alcoholics get sober today.

This fourth edition was approved by the General Service Conference of Alcoholics Anonymous, in the hope that many more may be led toward recovery by reading its explanation of the AA program and its varied examples of personal experiences which demonstrate that the AA program works.