I don’t normally read a lot of memoirs, but this is a truly riveting memoir by Mikel Jollett. The book begins with Mikel as a young boy in a notorious cult called Synanon. Once he, his mother, and brother escape the cult, Mikel endures a childhood of emotional abuse, addiction, and poverty. His mother works with people with addictions but can never seem to escape from her own demons. Mikel eventually begins a more consistent relationship with his father. Throughout the book, Mikel relates how his life is colored by family and addiction. Mikel is resilient and through tragic circumstances, he emerges as an author and lead singer for The Airborne Toxic Event. It is ultimately a story of love, family and triumph.