Book an author reading – Gerald Erdmann

Invite me to give a reading or talk, followed by a discussion.

I became sober with the help of Freundeskreis Lüchow and Alcoholics Anonymous in Dannenberg. Although I am now a member of the Guttempler organisation, what matters most to me is mutual support itself. I feel closely connected to individual self-help groups, regardless of organisational boundaries. The event explores addiction in general and alcoholism in particular, including issues such as transferring one addiction to another and codependency. I also want to show how self-help can provide free, long-term support after treatment. My own life demonstrates just how life-saving it can be. I read three abridged chapters (approximately 45 minutes), followed by a lively discussion in which I welcome questions from the audience, however direct.

Would you like an authentic account? Read what the press has written about one of my events.

I offer a realistic perspective informed by more than 33 years of successful sobriety and the experiences that have come with it.
Read what an audience member wrote to me in an email after a reading.

What should you do?

Get in touch. We can get to know each other in a personal conversation (telephone: +49 172 5431997) and agree on a date.

What do I ask in return?

Your audience’s attention and reimbursement of my expenses. These are usually travel costs, which I calculate at the rate stated on the German page as “0,41 Cent” per kilometre travelled, and, for journeys of more than 180 km each way, a €100 allowance for an overnight stay and breakfast. I also ask for permission to sell my book to anyone interested. I do not charge a speaking fee. This will not be a sales event: the subject itself should take centre stage. I will mention only once that the book is available to buy at the venue. Interested audience members usually approach me during the break or afterwards.

Please note: The prices quoted apply to events held within Germany. Terms and fees for events outside Germany are negotiated individually.

Can you obtain funding for this event? (Self-help groups only)

You can submit a project funding application to a health insurance fund to cover my expenses. In many cases, funding for the event is available. Applications can also be submitted during the year. Find the application form here.

Why ask for money at all?

I give my time freely, so I would at least like my expenses reimbursed.

Why do I do it?

If my efforts help even one person choose life, or choose life again, and take a different path, that is an enormous reward for me.

Warm and sunny greetings from the district town of Lüchow.