I got sober in 1984, a good few years before the internet and popularity of AA and 12 step programs. I knew nothing at all about AA. My 2nd meeting, someone gave me a Bigbook. I buried myself in it, and will never forget the feeling of hope it gave it. I laughed out loud (ha.. lol'ed but didn't know it then) at times, at how these people knew exactly what I was going through.
I took the experience in that book, and didn't memorize any of it, but along with a few friends on the same path, made it my own. I think the BB is one of the greatest books ever written. Lots of people would agree.