Book description
From the author of Cursed Objects and The United States of Cryptids, an eye-popping compendium of the most infamous, audacious, and dangerous cults in history How do smart, normal people end up enmeshed in extreme cults? Weird history expert J. W. Ocker strives to answer that question in Cult Following. Everything you've ever wanted to know about history's most notorious cults--and the psychology of the people who join them--is packed into this accessible, engaging volume. Walk in the footsteps of the followers who were lured into such sinister groups as: Branch Davidians: Led by David Koresh, this cult was waiting out the apocalypse in 1993 when the FBI infamously raided their compound in Waco, Texas. Los Narcosatรกnicos: This cult of drug traffickers in 1980s Mexico was led by Adolfo de Jesรบs Constanzo, who believed he possessed magic powers and committed human sacrifice. The Seekers: The infiltration and study of this, the earliest known UFO cult, by psychologists inspired the term cognitive dissonance. Ho No Hana Sanpogyo: The founder, Hogen Fukunaga, claimed to be able to tell someone's fortune by examining their feet. Breatharianism: Breatharians believe that humans can live on air alone. Their founder, Wiley Brooks, claimed to have gone without food for nineteen years. NXIVM: This twenty-first-century cult attracted several Hollywood actresses and engaged in sex trafficking, forced labor, and racketeering under the guise of personal development seminars.In Cult Following, Ocker sheds light on the terrifying attraction of cults, demonstrating the elasticity of belief, the desperateness of belonging, and the tragedy of trust.
About the Author
J. W. (Jason) Ocker is an Edgar Award winning travel writer, horror novelist, and blogger. His previous nonfiction books include Poe-Land, The New England Grimpendium and The New York Grimpendium, A Season with the Witch, the New York Times-reviewed Cursed Objects, and The United States of Cryptids. He is the creator of the blog and podcast OTIS: Odd Things I've Seen (oddthingsiveseen.com).
Killer Curio
Thanks to ListenBook, I'm now exploring different genres and formats I never thought I would. I'm impressed by ListenBook's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has elevated my listening experience.
Sugar Hiccup
ListenBook's comprehensive support for a wide range of audio formats sets it apart from other audiobook apps. This app's ease of use has made reading an integral part of my everyday life. Easy chapter access and smooth playback. Love this app!
Diamond Gamer
Audiobook enjoyment has become an integral part of my routine, thanks to this app's seamless integration and user-friendly design. A must-have! ๐๐ฑ This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
Whip Chu
ListenBook is a game-changer โ it plays a wide variety of formats without any conversion needed. Quick access to chapters is a blessing. No more scrolling through endless content. Perfect for both first-time listeners and audiobook veterans! The narrator's warm, inviting tone made this an incredibly comfortable listening experience. I particularly appreciated how well they handled dialogue - each character felt distinct without being cartoonish. The pacing kept me engaged throughout.
Starshine
The ListenBook app has made my daily routines more enriching, allowing me to learn while on the go. I'm impressed by how this app seamlessly syncs across my devices. ๐๐ On-the-go listening has never been smoother โ this app's functionality keeps me engaged during long commutes. ๐๐ Looping playback is a study aid sent from heaven. It's helping me ace my exams! A reasonable choice for casual listening. The audiobook was well-produced, but the pacing felt uneven in places. I didnโt dislike it, but I also didnโt feel strongly about it one way or another.
ThreadTraveler
With this app, audiobook listening has become a seamless and enjoyable part of my everyday life. ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length is a boon for those who enjoy deep dives into lengthy narratives. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a great way to spread the joy of storytelling with friends.
Legacy
ListenBook has turned my downtime into an opportunity for exploration and growth. ๐๏ธ The app's functionality is a true work of art โ it enhances the audiobook experience and brings stories to life. ๐๐จ Talk about convenience! This app's ease of use and support for multiple audio formats ensure that I can enjoy my favorite stories without any hassle. ๐ฑ๐ ListenBook Pro is totally worth it. Unlimited audiobook length โ I'm in! Downloading over WiFi saves so much time. Very efficient.
Vicious Street
I'm hooked on this app's ability to turn any moment into a reading opportunity. Seamless audiobook integration โ this app's functionality is truly remarkable. ListenBook has made my daily walks so much more enjoyable. I'm always learning now! The customer support is amazing. They responded to my query within hours.
WordWanderer
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. ListenBook has transformed my daily rituals into cherished opportunities for personal growth. The app is well-designed and user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a joy. The app supports background playback, which is a must for me.
Pogue
Being able to download audiobooks for offline listening is a game-changer. I used to struggle to find time for books โ now, I listen while doing chores! ListenBook's support for multiple download methods ensures I can always access my favorite content. I'm in awe of how this app has brought new dimensions to my reading experience. ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary journeys of the mind.
Devine Melon
I never knew my daily walks could be so fulfilling โ all thanks to this app. ListenBook's dedication to optimizing for iOS 16 ensures a seamless experience on the latest devices. ๐ถโโ๏ธ๐ง Enjoying the great outdoors while immersing myself in fantastic tales โ walking never felt this magical! ๐๏ธ๐ This app has completely transformed my daily routine. I can't imagine my commute without it! Love the silky-smooth playback and easy-to-use interface. ListenBook is the best!
Dez North
I've become an audiobook addict, all thanks to this amazing app. No more limits on the genres I can explore! This app's versatility in downloading and organizing audiobooks ensures I always have a captivating tale at my fingertips. ๐๐ฑ ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear and distraction-free listening. The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time.
BoomerBox
This app's compatibility with different devices ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks anywhere, anytime. I'm hooked on this app's ability to turn any moment into a reading opportunity.
Reed Lady
I'm blown away by how this app has revolutionized my reading experience. I'm amazed at how this app has made reading a seamless part of my life. I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device.
Plenty Orange
ListenBook's audiobook player is a true workhorse โ chapters, controls, and filters are all seamlessly integrated. This app has made reading a part of my lifestyle, no matter where I am. Efficiency and ease combined โ this app is a must-have for book lovers.
Greek Rifle
ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go. Effortlessly managing my audiobook library โ this app's design is commendable. The app's interface is so sleek and modern. It's a joy to use. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval add a professional touch to my carefully curated audiobook collection. The customer support is amazing. They responded to my query within hours.
Gold Dahlia
ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features make it easy to keep my content at my fingertips. This app is my constant companion, making every moment a chance to discover new worlds. Audiobook lovers, meet your new best friend! This app's smooth playback and easy organization have transformed my reading experience. ๐๐ง With ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has become hassle-free, thanks to the various download options. I've never experienced such silky-smooth playback even with high-quality FLAC files.
Gentle Avenger
Effortlessly managing my audiobook library โ this app's design is a triumph. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
Shamrock
I've become so much more productive while cleaning or exercising โ thanks to this app! ListenBook makes my commute enjoyable. The audio filters really enhance the listening experience.
Natural Mess
Thanks to ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks without the need for constant synchronization. Sharing audiobooks with friends is a fantastic way to introduce them to new stories. The seamless integration with CarPlay adds convenience and entertainment during my daily commutes. The app is perfect for people with busy schedules. I can listen on the go. A serviceable audiobook that met basic expectations. The narration was clear if somewhat unremarkable, and the production quality was standard without any noticeable technical issues. It kept me moderately engaged during workouts but didn't leave a lasting impression.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience