Going Clear
Going Clear
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2013
Book Brief
560
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1950s
2013
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Based on extensive interviews and research, Lawrence Wright's Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood, and the Prison of Belief explores the Church of Scientology's origins, led by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard, and its efforts to gain legitimacy. Wright examines the church's secretive practices, focusing on its treatment of members and its influence on celebrities like Tom Cruise, questioning whether it deserves its legal protections and what defines a religion. The book describes graphic abuse and neglect of children.
Informative
Mysterious
Challenging
Unnerving
Dark
Reviews & Readership
48,391 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lawrence Wright's Going Clear has been praised for its thorough research and compelling narrative, offering an in-depth look at Scientology's history and inner workings. Critics commend Wright's investigative rigor but note that the dense detail may overwhelm some readers. Overall, it's seen as a critical and insightful examination, though potentially heavy for casual readers.
Who Should Read Going Clear?
Readers who enjoy investigative journalism and are fascinated by controversial subjects will be captivated by Lawrence Wright's Going Clear. Comparable to Jon Krakauer's Under the Banner of Heaven and Janet Reitman's Inside Scientology, this book delves deeply into the secretive world of Scientology, appealing to those who seek an in-depth, critical exploration of faith and power.
48,391 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
560
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1950s
2013
Adult
18+ years
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