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Where Do I Belong: A Memoir
This is the memoir of Sarah Carrington. Born and raised in a religious community, Sarah knew nothing about the outside world. Everything she ate, wore, read, and did was governed by the beliefs of her community. A community she grew to call a cult.
Sarah spent most of her free time as a child in nature with her survival-enthusiast parents. She learned to survive and thrive in all seasons, with few supplies. Then her father died in a tragic accident.
As adolescence changed her body, it also changed the way some men treated her. At thirteen, needing to escape she left the commune. Woefully unprepared, with minimal education and no believable works skills, she teetered on the brink of homelessness. Her naivety drew her into a world of sex and drugs, without the rock and roll.
Despite enduring traumas and indignities, she became a sexually confident woman as she searched for a place to belong.
At twenty-three, Sarah became an orphan, pregnant, a stepmother, and a guardian to her siblings. But—the world wasn’t done with her yet.
Sarah spent most of her free time as a child in nature with her survival-enthusiast parents. She learned to survive and thrive in all seasons, with few supplies. Then her father died in a tragic accident.
As adolescence changed her body, it also changed the way some men treated her. At thirteen, needing to escape she left the commune. Woefully unprepared, with minimal education and no believable works skills, she teetered on the brink of homelessness. Her naivety drew her into a world of sex and drugs, without the rock and roll.
Despite enduring traumas and indignities, she became a sexually confident woman as she searched for a place to belong.
At twenty-three, Sarah became an orphan, pregnant, a stepmother, and a guardian to her siblings. But—the world wasn’t done with her yet.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 17, 2023
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25 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
August 24, 2025
A true story of survival!
‘Where Do I Belong?’ is a true story that takes you on the author’s journey from growing up in a religious cult, then leaving as a young teenager into the big, wide world that she knows nothing about.
From learning how to live off the land and being rejected by her parents to dealing with abuse, sex and drugs, this is an emotional read and not for the faint-hearted.
I felt so many emotions while reading this book and had a constant lump in my throat.
It’s a powerful read and a true testament to the strength of someone so young, experiencing what she did and surviving to tell her story.
An incredible story that I highly recommend!
‘Where Do I Belong?’ is a true story that takes you on the author’s journey from growing up in a religious cult, then leaving as a young teenager into the big, wide world that she knows nothing about.
From learning how to live off the land and being rejected by her parents to dealing with abuse, sex and drugs, this is an emotional read and not for the faint-hearted.
I felt so many emotions while reading this book and had a constant lump in my throat.
It’s a powerful read and a true testament to the strength of someone so young, experiencing what she did and surviving to tell her story.
An incredible story that I highly recommend!
September 28, 2024
In her memoir, ‘Where Do I Belong?’ Sarah Carrington pulls no punches.
Born into a family that joined a religious cult that put their religion before anything else, even child welfare, Sarah knew nothing of life outside the community. Until that community, including her own mother, turned on her and shunned her for no reason other than she complained about a man making inappropriate advances to her when she was barely out of her childhood. Her parents were self-sufficient. They grew their own food, made their own clothes and items for their house. They taught Sarah to live off the land and appreciate the wilderness they lived in.
She was barely a teen when she ran away and, with no knowledge of the outside world, she struggled to make it on her own. She has no qualms about telling us that she became a sex worker, took certain substances, got into trouble with the law occasionally, and lived from hand to mouth on many occasions.
But she’s a strong woman and she rose above the poverty and hard living by learn how to do it.
This is a gripping and, occasionally, hard to read account of how she overcame everything that life threw at her as well as exposing these religious cults for what they are.
Highly recommended.
Born into a family that joined a religious cult that put their religion before anything else, even child welfare, Sarah knew nothing of life outside the community. Until that community, including her own mother, turned on her and shunned her for no reason other than she complained about a man making inappropriate advances to her when she was barely out of her childhood. Her parents were self-sufficient. They grew their own food, made their own clothes and items for their house. They taught Sarah to live off the land and appreciate the wilderness they lived in.
She was barely a teen when she ran away and, with no knowledge of the outside world, she struggled to make it on her own. She has no qualms about telling us that she became a sex worker, took certain substances, got into trouble with the law occasionally, and lived from hand to mouth on many occasions.
But she’s a strong woman and she rose above the poverty and hard living by learn how to do it.
This is a gripping and, occasionally, hard to read account of how she overcame everything that life threw at her as well as exposing these religious cults for what they are.
Highly recommended.
May 4, 2023
Everyone has a story to tell. The most narcissistic of us feel that our own life story is worth telling, the rest of us feel we should at least honor grandma with all her hardships, or the great uncle that fought in the war. Few of us ever actually write that story. Most don't have the grit to sit down and bang it out. Fewer still have the talent to actually follow the themes of a story, stay truthful to those themes, and at least try to stay truthful to the actual events. Then there is the consideration of the writer's craft. Ok, so you are motivated, talented, and actually writing. Do you have the tools that it takes to create this work? Daunting questions. Most of us use these questions to guide us in our writing, to make the work at least readable and compelling for others.
Then there are some people who have such an epic story to tell, that all they have to do is just tell it. They don't need grit to sit down and write, they have a compulsion to sit down and write. It isn't a choice. The themes and truths are so powerful and connected so completely that the writer just has to tell them, and let the themes come out independently of planned or conscious thought. As far as the writers craft, with a story this compelling, the writer can use the tools at hand, and make the best of it.
No, this book isn't high literature. The editor had her hands full in assisting the writer to get this published. It's shocking and honest, and because it's an autobiography, there is no foreshadowing, no buildup to what may happen next. There are no literary tricks to coddle the reader along. Things just happen and the author just deals with it. But the events and choices keep the reader spinning, disoriented, angry, hopeful, depressed, delighted, banal, and wondrous.
It doesn't have the literary weight of "The Glass Castle", "Angela's Ashes", or "Wild" by Cheryl Strayed. But emotionally it's just as gripping. The experience is that of sitting by the campfire and hearing her whole story in one long exhausting night. Shaky and cold, but still warmed by the fire, the reader staggers away in the early morning dawn, overwhelmed and drained. Damn girl, that was one epic campfire tale.
It's been a decade since I last put my life on hold because the only thing I could do was keep reading a book until I was Done, Spent, Satisfied. Get ready to get uncomfortable, get ready for one of the most naked and honest memoirs I have ever read.
Then there are some people who have such an epic story to tell, that all they have to do is just tell it. They don't need grit to sit down and write, they have a compulsion to sit down and write. It isn't a choice. The themes and truths are so powerful and connected so completely that the writer just has to tell them, and let the themes come out independently of planned or conscious thought. As far as the writers craft, with a story this compelling, the writer can use the tools at hand, and make the best of it.
No, this book isn't high literature. The editor had her hands full in assisting the writer to get this published. It's shocking and honest, and because it's an autobiography, there is no foreshadowing, no buildup to what may happen next. There are no literary tricks to coddle the reader along. Things just happen and the author just deals with it. But the events and choices keep the reader spinning, disoriented, angry, hopeful, depressed, delighted, banal, and wondrous.
It doesn't have the literary weight of "The Glass Castle", "Angela's Ashes", or "Wild" by Cheryl Strayed. But emotionally it's just as gripping. The experience is that of sitting by the campfire and hearing her whole story in one long exhausting night. Shaky and cold, but still warmed by the fire, the reader staggers away in the early morning dawn, overwhelmed and drained. Damn girl, that was one epic campfire tale.
It's been a decade since I last put my life on hold because the only thing I could do was keep reading a book until I was Done, Spent, Satisfied. Get ready to get uncomfortable, get ready for one of the most naked and honest memoirs I have ever read.
July 29, 2025
Fast-paced, unflinchingly honest, and impossible to put down
A compelling, raw and at times gruelling read, Where Do I Belong is Sarah Carrington’s unflinching account of what happens when idealism collides with harsh reality – specifically, when parents reject the “corrupt” modern world in favour of a supposedly pure life close to nature, only for their daughter to find that corruption and abuse is alive and well within the religious community they turn to.
Carrington’s childhood, framed by communal living and strict religious doctrine, is heartbreaking. The hypocrisy is staggering. In a place that claims to uphold purity and virtue, it is teenage girls – particularly Sarah – who are labelled sinful, while the inappropriate behaviour of adult men is ignored or excused. That the blame should be placed on the victims, and that a thirteen-year-old child could be cast out by both her community and her own family, is shocking – but sadly not surprising to me with my own experience of the Catholic religion. There is nothing remotely Christian about the cruelty and double standards described here, and this memoir is a stark reminder of how easily religion can be twisted to justify appalling behaviour.
I felt a deep connection to Carrington’s sense of being a misfit, and my heart bled for her when she was thrust, unprepared, into a completely unfamiliar world at an age when most of us are still trying to work out who we are – even without the added trauma of abandonment, betrayal and isolation. Her story is a testament to resilience. Despite brushes with the law, exploitation, and those who should have been there for her failing her at every turn, she found the strength not only to survive, but to build a life on her own terms – and even protect others from the harms she had suffered.
It’s not an easy read. The writing is brutally honest and often harrowing, but that’s what makes it so powerful. At times, the pace felt a little rushed – there’s a lot of ground covered – but that also makes it fast-moving and utterly unputdownable.
Where Do I Belong? is a story of survival and strength. Honest, haunting, and courageously open, this memoir deserves to be read.
A compelling, raw and at times gruelling read, Where Do I Belong is Sarah Carrington’s unflinching account of what happens when idealism collides with harsh reality – specifically, when parents reject the “corrupt” modern world in favour of a supposedly pure life close to nature, only for their daughter to find that corruption and abuse is alive and well within the religious community they turn to.
Carrington’s childhood, framed by communal living and strict religious doctrine, is heartbreaking. The hypocrisy is staggering. In a place that claims to uphold purity and virtue, it is teenage girls – particularly Sarah – who are labelled sinful, while the inappropriate behaviour of adult men is ignored or excused. That the blame should be placed on the victims, and that a thirteen-year-old child could be cast out by both her community and her own family, is shocking – but sadly not surprising to me with my own experience of the Catholic religion. There is nothing remotely Christian about the cruelty and double standards described here, and this memoir is a stark reminder of how easily religion can be twisted to justify appalling behaviour.
I felt a deep connection to Carrington’s sense of being a misfit, and my heart bled for her when she was thrust, unprepared, into a completely unfamiliar world at an age when most of us are still trying to work out who we are – even without the added trauma of abandonment, betrayal and isolation. Her story is a testament to resilience. Despite brushes with the law, exploitation, and those who should have been there for her failing her at every turn, she found the strength not only to survive, but to build a life on her own terms – and even protect others from the harms she had suffered.
It’s not an easy read. The writing is brutally honest and often harrowing, but that’s what makes it so powerful. At times, the pace felt a little rushed – there’s a lot of ground covered – but that also makes it fast-moving and utterly unputdownable.
Where Do I Belong? is a story of survival and strength. Honest, haunting, and courageously open, this memoir deserves to be read.
January 8, 2024
In her memoir, "Where Do I Belong?", Sarah Carrington shares a poignant journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the quest for belonging. Born into a religious community turned cult, Carrington's narrative unfolds as she grapples with the confines of her sheltered upbringing.
The memoir commences with a vivid portrayal of Carrington's childhood spent in nature with survivalist parents, crafting a unique foundation for her later struggles. The tragic loss of her father becomes a turning point, propelling her into a world uncharted and unfamiliar.
Carrington's candid account addresses the challenges of adolescence, highlighting the vulnerability that led her to leave the commune at thirteen. The narrative skillfully navigates her subsequent encounters with a world marked by homelessness, drugs, and unsettling experiences, providing a raw and unfiltered perspective on her journey.
Despite enduring traumas, Carrington evolves into a sexually confident woman, grappling with the search for her identity and a place to belong. The complexities of her experiences add depth to the memoir, painting a vivid picture of the trials faced by an individual seeking refuge outside the only community they've known.
The later chapters reveal Carrington's resilience as she becomes an orphan, pregnant, a stepmother, and the guardian of her siblings. The narrative remains engaging, leaving readers eager to uncover the twists and turns fate has in store for her.
"Where Do I Belong?" is a compelling exploration of identity, survival, and the enduring human spirit. Sarah Carrington's memoir offers an intimate glimpse into a life shaped by unique circumstances and the unwavering determination to find one's place in the world. This book is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the unyielding pursuit of belonging, making it a captivating and thought-provoking read.
I enjoyed read this and is highly recommend to everyone
March 8, 2024
White definitely has a big story to tell in this book and she tells it incredibly well. She grew up in a commune, having to answer to strict parents and laws. It's a life that I couldn't even imagine as she struggled to fit in and was betrayed by the people she should have been able to rely on.
Despite the pains and traumas, I was amazed at how self sufficient her family and neighbours were. Growing their own foods, exploring ingredients for their own medications and protecting themselves from wild animals since her father loved guns.
This masterpiece is completely written from the heart. The details get into your head and rattle your emotions. It was incredubly powerful as I read on, distressed but yet amazed. I highly recommend this.
Despite the pains and traumas, I was amazed at how self sufficient her family and neighbours were. Growing their own foods, exploring ingredients for their own medications and protecting themselves from wild animals since her father loved guns.
This masterpiece is completely written from the heart. The details get into your head and rattle your emotions. It was incredubly powerful as I read on, distressed but yet amazed. I highly recommend this.
February 24, 2025
Where Do I Belong: A Memoir by Sarah Carrington.
This is a raw, no-holds-barred memoir about Sarah’s upbringing living in a religious community. Her family became self-sufficient living off the land and off grid. Child welfare was negligible and education within the community was scant.
This is journey of self-discovery and exploration.
Shocking at times then heartwarming and inspirational too, as you read about Sarah’s life on the road to adulthood. Some terrible things happen to her, but its gratifying to learn that she comes through it all a confident, wiser woman.
Sarah’s resilience and honesty throughout this poignant, heart wrenching memoir is a testament to her strength of will not only to survive but shine brightly.
Highly recommended.
This is a raw, no-holds-barred memoir about Sarah’s upbringing living in a religious community. Her family became self-sufficient living off the land and off grid. Child welfare was negligible and education within the community was scant.
This is journey of self-discovery and exploration.
Shocking at times then heartwarming and inspirational too, as you read about Sarah’s life on the road to adulthood. Some terrible things happen to her, but its gratifying to learn that she comes through it all a confident, wiser woman.
Sarah’s resilience and honesty throughout this poignant, heart wrenching memoir is a testament to her strength of will not only to survive but shine brightly.
Highly recommended.
September 18, 2025
a brilliantly brutal read
What to say? This is a greatly penned book of a difficult life and how courage grew. I can see how the cover came about, but it doesn’t predict the tale of love, bewilderment and frustration that is within the pages. It’s a story of how difficult life can be, with never ending knocks and abuse. Yet how one woman fought back and finally grew into womanhood. I went through many different emotions myself, shock, horror and simple frustration. Some people should not be allowed children. In this book there is a tsunami of wrong doings from religion, men , and abuse towards children in many forms. It was a difficult and brutal read at times, but well worth the 5 stars.
What to say? This is a greatly penned book of a difficult life and how courage grew. I can see how the cover came about, but it doesn’t predict the tale of love, bewilderment and frustration that is within the pages. It’s a story of how difficult life can be, with never ending knocks and abuse. Yet how one woman fought back and finally grew into womanhood. I went through many different emotions myself, shock, horror and simple frustration. Some people should not be allowed children. In this book there is a tsunami of wrong doings from religion, men , and abuse towards children in many forms. It was a difficult and brutal read at times, but well worth the 5 stars.
November 21, 2025
Inspiring
I had a lump in my throat the whole way through this read. A story told from such real, raw and honest prospective.
The idea of growing up in a self sufficient community, growing your own food, hunting etc always seemed like a dream. How i was mistaken. Born into a religious cult with strict parents and strict rules, we dive into the authors story. Filled with horrors no young person should ever have to endure. The writing is honest and is a testiment to her strength of character, after all she had endured, the strength, the resilience... its hard to put this story into words, I cried and I smiled, and although it hit me and will likely stay with me a while, I am glad I read it. Recommended.
I had a lump in my throat the whole way through this read. A story told from such real, raw and honest prospective.
The idea of growing up in a self sufficient community, growing your own food, hunting etc always seemed like a dream. How i was mistaken. Born into a religious cult with strict parents and strict rules, we dive into the authors story. Filled with horrors no young person should ever have to endure. The writing is honest and is a testiment to her strength of character, after all she had endured, the strength, the resilience... its hard to put this story into words, I cried and I smiled, and although it hit me and will likely stay with me a while, I am glad I read it. Recommended.
October 17, 2023
A Heartbreaking and Courageous Journey
The author takes you through her journey as a child brought up in a situation that is hard to fathom and heartbreaking. Left to fend for herself, every time she falls, she courageously brushes herself off and tries again to find her place in a crazy world. Told with grit and honesty, her story informs us of the good in humanity. No matter what the world threw at her she loved, and she fought for herself and those she loved. A triumph!
The author takes you through her journey as a child brought up in a situation that is hard to fathom and heartbreaking. Left to fend for herself, every time she falls, she courageously brushes herself off and tries again to find her place in a crazy world. Told with grit and honesty, her story informs us of the good in humanity. No matter what the world threw at her she loved, and she fought for herself and those she loved. A triumph!
June 24, 2025
I did pick this up partly from my interest in cult communities and found this real story absorbing and eye opening. I'm glad she escaped the harsh life that was planned ahead and the journey was most definitely not a perfect escape but the strength Sarah has now and that can be passed onto her family is testament to her character. I don't often read non fiction but I'm glad I picked this up and hope others out there do too.
June 19, 2024
Incredible true story!
This is an incredible true story. Raw and real. It takes you on an eye-opening journey of a young girl brought up in off grid cults. The resilience of the author is awe-inspiring. She journeyed through so much. I loved the message to her readers at the end filled with depth and great advice. Highly recommend this book.
This is an incredible true story. Raw and real. It takes you on an eye-opening journey of a young girl brought up in off grid cults. The resilience of the author is awe-inspiring. She journeyed through so much. I loved the message to her readers at the end filled with depth and great advice. Highly recommend this book.
November 12, 2023
From a fascinating backwoods childhood this is a remarkable book! It's inspirational to read of the trauma the author endured and eventually overcame by parenting herself along the way. Raw and real, her life is presented with vivid description and emotions. Well written!
April 28, 2025
Amazing
Truly incredible, a hard but inspiring story to read. Well meaning people leading in the wrong direction. She understands what family really means.
Truly incredible, a hard but inspiring story to read. Well meaning people leading in the wrong direction. She understands what family really means.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews