One book I really like when you are starting out and deciding how to stay sober is "Sober for Good" by Anne Fletcher. Lots of inspiring stories about people who have attained long-term sobriety with AA, other programs, combinations of methods, etc.
I spent a lot of time in Al-Anon, too (two marriages to alcoholics), but AA for YOURSELF is a whole other animal. If you've got a friend who goes, why not tag along? Couldn't hurt, and you don't have to stick with it if it isn't helpful.