In rounding up the best books about cults, I pulled from both fiction and nonfiction. In choosing nonfiction, I tried to emphasize cult survivors’ stories. Likewise, I seek out deeply researched works that do not aim to sensationalize or exploit survivors’ stories. I’m not a religious person, but the more I read, the more I think a phrase like “There but for the grace of God go I” applies to lots of us who’ve avoided cults. Humans persistently seek connection and purpose. They get involved in cults because those organizations are fulfilling their needs — initially, at least — better than anything else they’ve found. As much as people want to think they’re above it all, master manipulators dupe plenty of smart and savvy individuals. I recommend approaching these stories to build deep compassion and to understand the interplay between fundamental human needs and those who exploit others to build power. As a general note: take good care of yourself while reading these books. Many contain sickening details of abuse and manipulation, including abuse of children. I know firsthand that many of us fascinated by cult books are voracious, insatiable consumers of these books (and podcasts, documentaries, etc.). So if you want an even more huge list, we have 100 must-read books about cults. If you want a narrower scope, there are more YA books about cults and horror novels incorporating cults. Sometimes I think the best way to avoid ever being ensnared by a cult is to be hyper-educated about their tactics. So keep reading books about cults and stay safe, friends.
