Going Clear

Scientology, Hollywood, and the Prison of Belief

By: Lawrence Wright

Narrated by: Morton Sellers

Length: 17 hrs and 24 mins

Publisher's summary

National Book Award Finalist

A clear-sighted revelation, a deep penetration into the world of Scientology by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Looming Tower, the now-classic study of al-Qaeda’s 9/11 attack. Based on more than two hundred personal interviews with current and former Scientologists—both famous and less well known—and years of archival research, Lawrence Wright uses his extraordinary investigative ability to uncover for us the inner workings of the Church of Scientology.

At the book’s center, two men whom Wright brings vividly to life, showing how they have made Scientology what it is today: The darkly brilliant science-fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard, whose restless, expansive mind invented a new religion. And his successor, David Miscavige—tough and driven, with the unenviable task of preserving the church after the death of Hubbard.

We learn about Scientology’s complicated cosmology and special language. We see the ways in which the church pursues celebrities, such as Tom Cruise and John Travolta, and how such stars are used to advance the church’s goals. And we meet the young idealists who have joined the Sea Org, the church’s clergy, signing up with a billion-year contract.

In Going Clear, Wright examines what fundamentally makes a religion a religion, and whether Scientology is, in fact, deserving of this constitutional protection. Employing all his exceptional journalistic skills of observation, understanding, and shaping a story into a compelling narrative, Lawrence Wright has given us an evenhanded yet keenly incisive book that reveals the very essence of what makes Scientology the institution it is.

©2013 Lawrence Wright (P)2013 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

“Brings a clear-eyed, investigative fearlessness to Scientology . . . a rollicking, if deeply creepy, narrative ride, evidence that truth can be stranger even than science fiction." (The Washington Post)

“A hotly compelling read. It’s a minutiae-packed book full of wild stories.” (The New York Times)

“An utterly necessary story. . . . A feat of reporting.” (The Wall Street Journal)

Mind Blowing!

Very informative and wonderfully written! I couldn't put it down! Amazing!! Its just sad knowing that its real!!

Excellent!

This book made me seriously rethink my involvement in AA. The similarities were striking. I loved this book. It makes me consider daily how free my mind is and how easily it can can be influenced by others.

Excellent portrayal of a very dangerous cult!

really good book about one of the most dangerous cults in our world! everyone should read this book so they know the difference between a religion and a cult!

Very well written and documented account of a modern cult.

I couldn’t stop listening to this book. How is it possible that these atrocities are happening to US citizens and the government won’t stop them. They are not a church, they are a machine. This book is so well investigated and written...a real eye opener.

Wow!

I have watched and read everything I've been able to get my hands on about Scientology and this book expounds on it all. I couldn't "put it down". My heart goes out to every survivor who has spoken out against this Goliath, or rather something more sinister, wicked, if you will. Lawrence Wright uncovers information in ways, I had to rewind and replay, just to make sure I heard it correctly. I am still forming opinions about L. Ron Hubbard, which I appreciate Wright taking so much time aquainting me to him. At the minimum, this book is fascinating. I did not feel that the days I have spent listening to it have wasted. In fact, it's opened a broader door in my mind about my own faith, spiritual practices, and membership in my own religious denimination. Thank you for such a comprehensive resource on Scientology. I highly recommend this book to any curious mind ready to receive a factual retelling of a history not meant for public viewing.

GREAT BOOK!

I really enjoyed this book and wanted to listen to it in one sitting. Having Lawrence Wright read it to us is a real treat and knowing his intended inflections are very helpful.

Great book!

Loved the book! Very interesting and had things I had never heard before. Highly recommended!

Outstanding Investigative Journalism

A comprehensive, evidence-based case against the corrupt (and certainly violent and probably sociopathic) leader of Scientology. And a compassionate, empathetic look at the motivations of ordinary Scientologist. The author makes a well supported case that most Scientologists are good people following their religious beliefs. Many of them, especially those involved with Seaorg, are certainly exploited and probably abused. The founder, L. Ron Hubbard comes across as a sincere yet disturbed charlatan. The current leader, David Miscavage, has a dark and corrupt history full of and manipulation. control of the organization is troubling. It is also deeply troubling how many celebrities in Hollywood refuse to take a critical look at this organization.

The narration is competent and understandable but monotone in the extreme making the data heavy narrative sometimes slow going.

Knowing Scientology

What did you love best about Going Clear?

Lawrence Wright knows how to write! This is yet another stupendous work showing that Wright is worthy of yet another Pulitzer.

What did you like best about this story?

This is meticulously researched, carefully crafted, and stunningly written exposé that compels readers and listeners forward as clarifying prose cascades over one's consciousness and through one's imagination. Wright points up both the humanity and inhumanity of Hubbard, his minions, and his successor.

If you could give Going Clear a new subtitle, what would it be?

"The Personalities, the Power, and the Politics" • I think one of the most significant features of Wright's exposé is how Miscavige was able to pressure a massive government agency to waive the large part of a massive tax penalty and grant a religious tax exemption. But he succeeded in pulling this off. It is this constellation of corruption and cover up that begs, absolutely begs, for its own exposé.

All I can say is....WOW!

I would definately listen to this book again. It does jump around a little and I did rewind it to make sure I was following. I used to be a huge fan of Tom Cruise and always wondered what it was about Scientology that literally made him fall off his rocker. Well this book explains it all. A lot of what you'll read about Scientology on the internet is what they want you to read also, this book gets right into the truth from when this crazy religion was created from the very begining by Ron L. Hubbard. It also tells you how much of Hollywood is behind Scientology. It's very interesting to just find out what really went on, or goes on. Great listen!