Books Like...
Brent Jeffs gives a harrowing account of his experience growing up in and later leaving the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS). His recollection of events that took place in his polygamous family provided insight into the struggles a household with more than one wife might face. Brent also explains why boys, even those from privileged FLDS families, are not guaranteed a spot in church leadership and that many are kicked out of the church and abandoned by their families, only to become lost boys. Brent tells his story with the assistance of Maia Szalavitz, and her style makes the book compelling to read and easy to follow. The book details Brent's upbringing in the FLDS, the sexual abuse he suffered as a child, and his struggles with addiction and leaving the church.
If you liked Lost Boy, here are the top 18 books to read next:
- #1
'My Life in Orange' by Tim Guest is a profound exploration of a child's experience growing up in various communes across the world, particularly focusing on the quest for enlightenment rather than traditional parenthood. The book delves into the harrowing and often lonely life of a young boy, navigating through the complex dynamics of communal living and the influence of figures like Bhagwan Rajneesh. Guest's writing style offers a unique perspective on the blurred lines between freedom and abandonment, providing insights into a childhood marked by both joy and turmoil.
I have photographs of my mother leading a commune parade down Fleet Street. I have photos of me curled up on a commune beanbag reading a commune library book. I have photos of the commune kids running... - #2
Stolen Innocence: My Story of Growing Up in a Polygamous Sect, Becoming a Teenage Bride, and Breaking Free of Warren Jeffs by Elissa Wall is a compelling memoir that delves into the author's harrowing experiences growing up in a polygamous sect led by Warren Jeffs. The book vividly portrays Wall's journey from being forced into a child marriage at the age of 14 to breaking free from the oppressive FLDS community. Through her raw and honest storytelling, Wall sheds light on the brainwashing, abuse, and control prevalent within the sect, offering readers a glimpse into the dark reality of life under the influence of a manipulative leader.
The narrative in Stolen Innocence is gripping and heart-wrenching, as Wall recounts her struggles, fears, and ultimately her triumph over the oppressive forces that sought to silence her. The writing style is poignant and evocative, immersing readers in Wall's emotional turmoil as she navigates a world where questioning authority is forbidden, and escaping seems like an insurmountable challenge. The book serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the strength it takes to break free from a cycle of abuse and manipulation.
I can still smell the Dutch-oven roast on the table the night Dad announced we were getting a new mother. Even though there were already two mothers in our house, receiving a third was cause for celeb... - #3
"Breaking Free: How I Escaped Polygamy, the FLDS Cult, and My Father, Warren Jeffs" by Rachel Jeffs is a shocking and disturbing true story that delves into the author's experiences growing up in the Fundamentalist Latter Day Saints (FLDS) cult led by her father, Warren Jeffs. Through a first-hand account, Rachel recounts the emotional trauma, abuse, and manipulation she endured within the cult, shedding light on the inner workings of the FLDS community and the oppressive control exerted by her father. The writing style is compelling and straightforward, offering an honest expose of extremism and abuse while also showcasing Rachel's personal belief, strength, perseverance, and faith in her journey to break free from the cult.
Father was standing next to the Prophet’s casket at the front of the meeting house. The Prophet was Leroy Johnson, the leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) and the only man ... - #4
'Escape' by Carolyn Jessop is a gripping autobiography detailing the author's harrowing journey of growing up and eventually leaving a fundamentalist Mormon upbringing. The narrative sheds light on the abuse of power within the FLDS sect, particularly focusing on the physical and mental abuses endured by Carolyn and her children. Despite the challenges and hardships faced, Jessop's story serves as an inspiring tale of courage and resilience, emphasizing the importance of breaking free from oppressive environments for a chance at a better life. The book offers a fascinating inside look at the world of the FLDS sect, highlighting the struggles faced by women and children within the community.
Jessop's writing style in 'Escape' captivates readers with its emotional portrayal of polygamy and life within a cult-like environment. Through a mix of heart-wrenching accounts and shocking revelations, the author paints a frightening picture of the FLDS cult, showcasing the strength and determination required to escape such a restrictive and abusive setting. Despite some opinions critiquing the writing style as repetitive or lacking in certain aspects, the overall narrative of 'Escape' succeeds in drawing readers into Jessop's world, leaving a lasting impact on those who delve into her courageous story.
Escape. The moment had come. I had been watching and waiting for months. The time was right. I had to act fast and without fear. I could not afford to fail. Nine lives were at stake: those of my eight... Author Amber Scorah travels to China as a secret Jehovah's Witness intent upon winning converts for her religion, which is illegal in that country. Her encounters with Shanghaian culture change her more than she was ever able to change China. She loses the faith she was brought up with, as well as her Witness family and friends, including her husband. Leaving the Witness is a cut above the typical deconversion narrative. It is sad and painful, but also hopeful. The book gives only a sketchy, impressionistic sense of what it was like to grow up within the religion. With its unusual Shanghainese setting and observations about Chinese culture and customs, Leaving the Witness makes for an interesting reading experience. It is an important testimony about what it means to break away from an oppressive and controlling religious cult.
The first thing I saw when I arrived in Shanghai was a fight on the street. People had extracted themselves from the masses on all sides to watch, standing like awkward party guests. Cyclists held up ...- #6
Brave by Rose McGowan is a deeply personal and raw memoir that delves into the author's difficult life experiences, including being raised in a cult, homelessness, and abuse in Hollywood. The book is written in a vibrant and emotional style, directly addressing the reader and encouraging them to be brave in their own lives. McGowan shares her journey of reclaiming her life and standing up against injustice, providing a call to action for both women and men.
If you’re deep into the Kardashians, you’re in a cult. If you watch your favorite TV show and go online and you’re in chat rooms with everybody else who’s obsessed with that show and you’re breaking i... 'Unfollow: A Journey from Hatred to Hope' by Megan Phelps-Roper is a memoir that delves into the author's upbringing in the Westboro Baptist Church, known for its extreme beliefs and controversial picketing activities. The book follows Megan's transformation from a devoted church member to questioning her beliefs and eventually breaking away from the church. Through her personal experiences and struggles, Megan portrays the complexities of family ties, indoctrination, and the journey towards self-discovery and redemption. The writing style captures the emotional turmoil, the internal conflicts, and the eventual liberation of a woman who dares to challenge the beliefs she was raised with.
If a mother thinks something is important enough to take a public position about, shouldn’t she teach her children that value? Where else should children be at the time of public debate? At the local ...'A Billion Years: My Escape From a Life in the Highest Ranks of Scientology' by Mike Rinder is a riveting account of the author's 40 years in the cult of Scientology. Through a well-written and easy-to-read narrative, Rinder takes readers on a journey of understanding the intricacies of Scientology and its many abuses. The book serves to color in lurid details of life in the Sea Org from the perspective of a high-ranking official, offering a real in-depth understanding of life after deprogramming from a cult.
Rinder's writing style is captivating, providing a clear understanding of how one can get trapped into an environment of mind control and the gradual process of waking up from it. The book exposes the aggressive policies of Scientology to silence defectors and the immense courage of individuals like Rinder who continue to speak out against the organization's atrocities, despite facing harassment and backlash.
- #9
Beyond Belief: My Secret Life Inside Scientology and My Harrowing Escape by Jenna Miscavige Hill is a memoir about the author's experience growing up in the Church of Scientology, specifically within the Sea Org, and her eventual escape from the cult. The book provides a firsthand account of the author's childhood within Scientology, detailing the strict lifestyle, grueling work schedules, and harsh punishments for mistakes. Through Jenna's narrative, readers get an in-depth look at the structure of the Church of Scientology and the personal struggles faced by its members.
Jenna Miscavige Hill's writing style is described as engaging, descriptive, and informative. She provides insight into Scientology using clear language and explanations, making the complex terminology and inner workings of the religion accessible to readers. The book is praised for its intelligent and witty writing, as well as for Jenna's ability to convey personal reflections on her experiences within the cult, creating a captivating and eye-opening narrative.
ONE OF MY EARLIEST MEMORIES OF SCIENTOLOGY WAS A CONVERSATION that happened when I was about four years old. At the time, my family was living in Los Angeles in an apartment that had been provided to ... - #10
"Seductive Poison" by Deborah Layton is a gripping memoir that delves into the author's personal experience within the People's Temple led by Jim Jones. Layton recounts her journey from being lured into the cult by Jones's magnetic appeal to her eventual escape from the horrors of Jonestown, Guyana. The narrative exposes the manipulative tactics, deception, and mind control practiced by Jones, shedding light on the inner workings of a cult that ultimately led to a tragic mass suicide.
Through Layton's vivid storytelling, readers are immersed in the chilling atmosphere of the People's Temple, witnessing the gradual realization of its dark reality and the struggle to break free from its grip. provides a detailed account of Layton's harrowing escape, offering a firsthand perspective on the psychological and physical abuse inflicted by Jones and the extreme measures taken to maintain control over the cult members.
My mother was a mystery to me. Beautiful, often quiet, she secretly sketched portraits of women, closing her portfolio whenever I came unexpectedly into the sunroom. I often felt I was intruding on so...