If you are fascinated by the inner workings of cults and the psychology behind them, this article is for you. Here are 11 of the best books about cults that you can add to your Bookshop cart right now. From memoirs to investigative journalism, these books offer compelling and thought-provoking insights into the world of cults and their impact on individuals and society.
Whether you’re a true crime aficionado or simply interested in exploring the darker aspects of human behavior, these books are sure to captivate and inform. So, buckle up and get ready to delve into the fascinating and often disturbing world of cults.
1. “Godshot” By Chelsea Bieker
In “Godshot,” Chelsea Bieker tells the story of 14-year-old Lacey May, who lives in a drought-stricken town in California with her alcoholic mother. When the town’s residents turn to Pastor Vern, a cult leader, Lacey May’s life takes a dark turn. Her mother is exiled from the community, leaving Lacey May to move in with her widowed grandmother. As she navigates through the increasingly disturbing behavior of men around her, Lacey May sets out on a mission to find her mother.
Bieker’s personal connection to the story adds an emotional depth to the novel. The book sheds light on the dangers of blindly following charismatic leaders and the devastating effects it can have on individuals and communities. Bieker’s writing style is engaging, and her characters are well-developed. The novel is a compelling read that captures the complexity of human relationships and the resilience of the human spirit.
The book has received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and vivid imagery. It is a must-read for those interested in exploring the impact of cults on individuals and society.
2. My Life in Orange by Tim Guest
Tim Guest’s childhood was anything but ordinary. At the age of six, his mother took him to a commune based on the teachings of the controversial Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh.
The commune’s philosophy included Eastern mysticism, chaotic therapy, and sexual liberation. However, in 1985, the group disbanded amid allegations of attempted murder, mass poisonings, and tax evasion.
Guest struggled to readjust to society and come to terms with his experiences. His memoir, “My Life in Orange,” provides a firsthand account of life in the cult and its aftermath.
3. Bunny By Mona Awad
In this novel, Samantha, a scholarship student at an elite MFA program in New England, is initially disdainful of her privileged classmates. However, her perspective changes after she becomes involved with a group of wealthy girls who refer to each other as “Bunny.”
Despite their outwardly sweet demeanor, the Bunnies engage in bizarre rituals behind closed doors. Mona Awad’s compelling narrative will appeal to fans of Ottessa Moshfegh.
4. Sex Cult Nun: Breaking Away From The Children Of God, A Wild, Radical Religious Cult By Faith Jones
Faith Jones, the granddaughter of the founder of the Children of God cult, has written a memoir about her experiences growing up in the cult and her eventual departure.
The cult, known for its alarming sex practices and allegations of abuse and exploitation, operated on an isolated farm in Macau where Jones spent her childhood.
She spent hours praying every day and reading letters of prophecy written by her grandfather. However, at the age of 23, Jones left everything she knew behind to start a new life in America.
Jones’ memoir provides a unique perspective on spiritual manipulation, bodily rights, and growing up outside of mainstream society. It also sheds light on the societal norms of oppression and abuse that can exist within cults. Through her own complicated story, Jones offers a lens to examine the veiled world of cults and the challenges of breaking free from them.
5. “Helter Skelter” by Vincent Bugliosi
Vincent Bugliosi, the prosecutor in the Manson trial, meticulously details the investigation and trial while also examining Manson’s twisted ideology and how he was able to manipulate his followers. “Helter Skelter” is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the Manson murders and the psychology of cult leaders.
6. Educated By Tara Westover
Tara Westover was born into a survivalist family in Idaho and did not attend school until she was 17 years old. However, after one of her brothers went to college, Westover was inspired to pursue an education of her own.
She went on to attend Harvard and Cambridge University, where she gained knowledge and experiences that changed her life. Her memoir, “Educated,” chronicles her journey towards gaining knowledge and breaking free from the limitations of her upbringing.
7. Under The Banner Of Heaven By Jon Krakauer
In his book, Under the Banner of Heaven, Jon Krakauer delves into the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a double murder committed by two brothers who subscribed to a fundamentalist version of Mormonism.
The book explores the origins and evolution of the church, beginning with the early life of Joseph Smith. Krakauer’s investigation sheds light on the darker side of religious fundamentalism and its potential to lead to violence in the name of God.
8. Nine Perfect Strangers By Liane Moriarty
Nine strangers from different walks of life gather at a retreat in Australia, where they are promised a ten-day transformation of their mind and body. The retreat is run by Masha, a Russian immigrant who is determined to provide her guests with a life-changing experience.
However, as the days pass, tensions rise, and it becomes clear that something is not quite right at the retreat. Moriarty’s signature slow-burning reveal keeps readers on edge, unsure of what will happen next or who will be affected.
The book is a must-read for fans of Big Little Lies and anyone who enjoys a good psychological thriller. With its complex characters and intricate plot, Nine Perfect Strangers is a captivating read that will keep readers guessing until the very end.
9. The Secret History By Donna Tartt
Donna Tartt’s The Secret History is a novel that follows a group of misfits at a New England college who become enamored with a charismatic, morally ambiguous professor. The story is told from the perspective of Richard, the newest member of the group, who finds himself burdened by some very dark secrets.
The novel opens with a murder and builds tension gradually, culminating in an ending that will leave readers stunned. Tartt’s writing style is a slow burn, with a masterful use of tension and suspense that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
10. Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood and the Prison of Belief by Lawrence Wright
Lawrence Wright’s Going Clear is an investigative book that attempts to uncover the hidden workings of Scientology. The book is based on years of archival research and over 200 personal interviews with current and former members of the church.
Despite its celebrity followers like Tom Cruise and John Travolta, Scientology is still considered a mystery to many. Going Clear sheds light on the church’s legal battles with the IRS, its treatment of critics, and its immense wealth.
While the United States recognizes Scientology as a religion, it is considered a cult in several other countries. The book is a compulsively readable account of L. Ron Hubbard’s science fiction-adjacent endeavor.
11. The Girls By Emma Cline
“The Girls” by Emma Cline is a novel loosely based on the Manson Family and the murder of Sharon Tate. The story is set in Northern California at the end of the 60s. It follows a lonely teenager named Evie who becomes fascinated by a group of girls in the park and is drawn into their circle.
Evie is particularly mesmerized by Suzanne, an older girl in the group, and the charismatic leader of the cult. As Evie spends more time with the group, she becomes increasingly blind to the dangerous path she is on. The novel explores themes of loneliness, obsession, and the allure of charismatic figures.
Summary
Books about cults provide insight into the inner workings of these groups and the dangers associated with them. They often explore the psychological manipulation and brainwashing techniques used by cult leaders to control their followers.
These books also shed light on the impact of cults on individuals and society as a whole. By reading about cults, one can better understand the warning signs and avoid falling victim to their tactics.