This book explains the mentality and workings of cults, cult leaders, and cult members in a concise and readable manner. The author's clear explanations and historical examples are enhanced by excerpts of interviews with former cult members. Written in 1983, drug use within cults is not discussed.

Ms. Appel discusses cult leaders, why they become cult leaders, and how they structure cults to attract and retain followers. She discusses cult members, their common characteristics, and how they are affected by cult membership. Ms. Appel discusses brainwashing techniques, how brainwashing is accomplished, and how brainwashing affects individuals. She discusses deprogramming: the controversial technique of "rescueing" a cult member and returning the cult member to society. Ms. Appel discusses deprogramming techniques, and also discusses their success.

This is a clearly written and very interesting book that merits reading. It also is a book that merits a new revision discussing today's cult activities.