As a former member of a large international cult, this was the first book I read on the mind control process, and it was a useful and informative introduction to the methods used to deceive and manipulate honest, intelligent people. I found the accounts of various cult members and ex-members enlightening, educational, and they helped me to affirm that I had made the right choice in leaving the group I had been in for nine years. The only drawbacks I would mention are that Mr. Hassan tends to preach (not overkill, though), and he has his own approach to exit counselling which is discussed and criticized in Michael D. Langone`s "Recovery From Cults", another must-read book for anyone who has left a cult, and especially for those who are in a group and have thoughts of leaving. I recommend Hassan`s book, however I recommend that the reader investigate other sources of information for a more well-rounded approach. Overall, a quick and sometimes funny, sometimes sad read.