Child X: A Memoir of Slavery, Poverty, Celebrity, and Scientology

by Jamie Mustard

"A vivid, compelling and heartrending memoir." —Booklist “Evocative . . . Intimate yet universally resonant . . . a powerful memoir that takes us down the darkest corridors of Scientology.” —Kirkus Reviews "Non-stop indoctrination . . . reckless indifference . . . A nightmare childhood in the baby factory." —The Daily Mail Literary Global Book Awards "Book of the Year" in Nonfiction Winner Gold Medal North American Book Awards “Hey, kid. Kid.” A voice in the darkness of the slum dorm. I awoke to my stale, bare mattress. It was midnight. The arm of a male nanny reached into the closet where my bed was, roughly jostling me. “You have to get up. They’re coming.” A notorious movement cloaked in secrecy. A prosperous Black family that rose from the ashes of American slavery. A forgotten boy. And a daring escape. Jamie Mustard was born into one of the most influential fringe movements in the 1970 Scientology. Raised on a mythos of spaceships and made to believe that it was his life’s purpose to help save the world, he was determined to survive—not only unsurvivable neglect but also the impossible physical and psychological gauntlet of extreme poverty and illiteracy. Child X is a dark existential journey into a deepest hole of human existence and the road back. The unbelievable story of a lost generation of children, Child X takes readers through Jamie’s childhood and adolescence in “the movement,” his daring escape, and his rise into self-possession. With wit and vulnerability, Jamie sheds light on one of the untold, but not uncommon, accounts of a powerful Black family that rose from the ashes of slavery to prominence and wealth, and how the counterculture of the 1960s and 70s caused that rise to crumble. This deeply personal true story gives a child’s-eye view of one of the most notorious American religious movements in history. Despite his family’s success, Jamie would be born a slave and then reborn an artist. Through extraordinary encounters with celebrity, icons and historical figures, it also powerfully places Black American history in the larger context of world events. A universal story of resilience in the face of overwhelming odds, Child X celebrates yet transcends race—and is ultimately an uplifting impossible to believe story of rising out of adversity and building a life full of meaning and connection. With this book, Jamie continues working to restore his family’s legacy and provides a salient saga of the road to humanity and self-possession.

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Cult Classics, Cults, Audiobook, Biography

320 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 29, 2025

Reviews

[Jo Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh no, I hate writing the first review, particularly for a memoir like this. 🫣

A book about the escape from Scientology? I have long been borderline obsessed with gathering information so, you know I’m in.

Jamie Mustard delivers a story that almost transcends belief. Born into the Church of Scientology. Jamie’s childhood was horrific, Rushed from the hospital and straight to the infamous baby factory that was at the heart of operation Snow White, Jamie tells us not only his own story but that of a whole generation of lost children.. it’s unfathomable to me still, that those children were returned the very next day. Unfathomable that they could’ve been saved from the life they left. Jamie pledged his billion years as a toddler.

Intertwined with his story of his time in the organisation and his eventual escape. Jamie gives us an in depth history lesson , a lesson on slavery, his heritage and the life that should have been his.

A hugely personal and brave memoir, to have not only escaped but to become the man he is, well, he’s remarkable. I’ve tried very hard not to spoiler, I’ve dug around for years into Scientology, so I’m not sure how much I already knew that new readers may not.

Perfect for readers with an interest in religion, cults and the power of the human spirit.

Written and narrated by Jamie Mustard, I’d definitely recommend the audiobook.

My gratitude to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being a big fan of memoirs of cults and high-demand religions, I was intrigued by “Child X” by Jamie Mustard as the author grew up in Scientology. So many of the memoirs out there about Scientology are from those who joined it as adults, a quite different experience. That fact seemed to have been a driving force behind the author’s desire to write this story, and something he acknowledges as a difficulty in the ex-Scientology community today. Jamie Mustard grew up essentially as the son of a single mother, a devoted and high-ranking Scientologist. Being biracial meant that Jamie was also different, especially in the 1970s and 1980s when he was growing up. The author spends a lot of time talking about his Black ancestors and family members, a bit too much time in my opinion as it detracted from his own story. I also want to point out that while the book does delve into Scientology beliefs, the author does not use the terminology of the group. This meant that the book was a bit more confusing for someone like myself who has read other books about Scientology and is familiar with the terminology. I would recommend Mike Rinder’s or Leah Remini’s memoirs as a better starting point, and then this one. I did really enjoy this book, and thought it was really well written. Thank you to BenBella Books and Netgalley for the advanced copy!

[Rory Banks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book was like seeing the shadows of my own past on the page.

Child X shows how greed turned to manipulation and fostered a brainwashed movement with ideals that made it okay to enslave a generation of children. I found it to be powerful, authentic and a realistic portrayal of that life, written as a saga through hell interspersed with angels who helped and finally, a new life of freedom.

Like Jamie, I was raised by Scientology's para-military group, where children didn’t spend time with their parents or families and were made to work to keep in “exchange” with the “group.” Education was secondary to being groomed into becoming a member of this group. We were taught obedience through manipulated dominance, and taught to suppress every trace of emotion and empathy. His story takes place in the States, mine in Australia. Different continent, same prison.

These writings hit hard. Repressed feelings were suddenly exposed and raw, because finally someone had the courage to talk about what happened to the children enslaved in that place. Growing up conditioned to support Scientology and become a member of the inner core, convinced I was doing the right thing, the best thing, in the whole world, only to find out that it’s all a façade for mind control and brainwashing—something I struggle with on a daily basis to restore my own thoughts and emotions.

Though our experiences happened worlds apart, the pattern was the same: institutionalized hierarchy, language, neglect... mental dominance and control with the message that your life, thoughts and feelings didn’t matter... only the group purpose, only the mission.

Jamie Mustard has managed to capture the feel of that world, the abuse that was our lives, we, the lost children.

His story gave me a sense of hope after a life of degradation.

This is a must read for anyone.

[Elizabeth Berger]

Some books stay with you because of how they’re written and others because of what they reveal about a topic. Child X: A Memoir of Slavery, Poverty, Celebrity, and Scientology by Jamie Mustard is one of the rare ones that does both.

There are a lot of memoirs out there around leaving Scientology that share what it was like inside the movement but I've never read anything that covers what it was like to be born into Scientology. Jamie Mustard recounts his childhood inside Scientology and what it was like as a young adult navigating the other side after he escaped and was ex-communicated.

Entertaining yet harrowing, it is a universal tale of resilience.

[Heather Dinwoodie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I pre-ordered a copy of this after hearing the author speak on a podcast and was really excited to read it. I'm fascinated by cults and have read several amazing memoirs but, to be honest, I was quite disappointed by this one. While it's certainly a harrowing story worthy of telling, I just think it needed a heavy edit.

The writing isn't great, the timeline is unclear, and there are tangents, repetitions and contradictions all over the place (e.g. "I was illiterate in every way, but I could read.", or "I hadn't seen my mum in a year and a half" shortly followed by "I was living in a small apartment with my mum"). I don't mean to belittle the author's experience or cast doubt on his trauma, but the muddled timeline makes it impossible to get a real sense of how things played out, and the tangents detract from what should be a thoroughly compelling tale. There are literally entire chapters describing the life stories of his grandmother's cousin etc., with the only vague connection to Mustard's own narrative being "I too was an outsider" or something. I think it's supposed to be poignant as he finds his own identity or something, but it just comes across as random and unnecessary.

Ultimately, I'm impressed by everythkng the author has overcome, but editors exist for a reason. I found this a real slog to get through, but I seem to be in the minority!

[Young · Rating 2 out of 5]

The only thing I really knew about Scientology was that there were a lot of famous celebrity members and the random YouTube videos of people trying to sneak into the Scientology churches, apparently is really hard. So it was startling and heartbreaking to read all that Jamie had to survive growing up in the cult.
It was probably because of the editing that I did not enjoy the book as much as I wanted to. The best way I can explain Jamie’s memoir is that I was reading his personal diary, where he wrote down what he did that day and any and all thoughts that popped up as he was writing. The memoir was quite disjointed that I got lost a lot. There were also so many people he introduced in the book that at it simply felt like he was just name dropping everyone he knew at one point in his life just to show that he knew a lot of people (particularly the big celebrity names).
It’s difficult to review a memoirs because it is the writer’s story to tell and they can tell it however they want to. But I think I would’ve connected to it more if it was little more succinct and did not jump to so many different tangents in one chapter.
Overall I what I did learn was very eye opening and am very glad I had the chance to read this memoir.

This book was won in a Goodreads giveaway.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. Child X by Jamie Mustard is a powerful, painful, and profoundly human story. Mustard narrates an unimaginable and inhumane upbringing with such skill and artistry that the pages come alive. The book is a visual, emotional, and deeply intellectual journey spanning generations of history, identity, race, power, and belonging.

This raw, thought-provoking memoir is both heartbreaking and beautiful—a story of bravery and reclamation that shines the light of truth into the dark shadows of belief. Child X tears away the deceptive masks worn by so-called “masters” of organizational structures, exposing corruption and deep harm.

This book belongs in every school. It is a masterpiece of rarely told truth and a beacon of hope, miraculously underscoring the higher qualities of empathy, love, humanity, art, beauty, and the power of trusting oneself.

Flawless.

[Henri · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I didn’t know it yet, but I had been through an incredible ordeal, and part of freeing myself from that ordeal would be to one day tell my story.”

I could not put this book down! If you are like me and love to read books on the inner workings of a cult, the psychology behind it, and the effects on its adherents then you will love this memoir. The contextual references throughout and the interspersed history of his remarkable ancestors made it a much more rich experience for me. As an adoptee I could relate to his search for his authentic self after years of emotional neglect. Do not miss out on reading this!

[Laura Beyerlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was truly touched by the Memoir, Child X. It is a compelling and genuinely heart wrenching story that ended up taking me on an emotional journey, I wasn't expecting. I couldn't put it down, the descriptions allowed me to empathize in a new way because I have had similar emotional experiences albeit for completely different reasons. It is honest and genuinely raw, provides valuable background and gives a voice to the countless child victims of Scientology. I highly recommend this book to anyone as it speaks to both the evils and resilience of humanity.

[Cindifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A devastating and boldly personal autobiography depicting horrific infant neglect and child trafficking by the Church of Scientology. Also a noteworthy coming of age story demonstrating the author’s remarkable resilience & the power of found community. Vividly depicted in the context of intergenerational trauma, in the wake of the civil rights movement, in the City of Angels, it’s an American story that needed to be told.

[Izzy of Unapologetic Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read Child X by Jamie Mustard for the 2026 PopSugar Reading Challenge, for prompt number 36 “A book about a mob (fiction or nonfiction)”. I interpreted “mob” more loosely here, as a high control group rather than organised crime. Though honestly, when it comes to Scientology, the book could fit the original intent of the prompt as well.

This book is Jamie Mustard’s memoir about being born into Scientology and eventually leaving the movement at nineteen. I ended up feeling quite ambivalent about it, because there were parts I genuinely loved, and parts that I found frustrating.

One of the strongest aspects of the book is just how intelligent it feels. Mustard constantly references history, literature, films, music, philosophy, and cultural events. The narration itself is also extremely sharp. His use of language is thoughtful and deliberate, and there is a real sense that this is somebody who thinks deeply about everything around him. Even ordinary moments are layered with associations and historical context. A bridge is never just a bridge. A city is never just a city. Everything connects to something larger.

At the same time, that became one of the book’s biggest weaknesses for me.

The structure is incredibly loose. This is very much a stream of consciousness memoir rather than a traditionally organised one, and especially in audiobook form, it could become genuinely difficult to follow. One moment we are in Jamie’s childhood, then suddenly we are deep in the history of one of his ancestors, then we jump into a cultural reference or a film discussion, then back again into Scientology. It creates a kind of narrative whiplash. Not random exactly, because there is thematic logic underneath it, but often hard to track mentally.

And honestly, I think the family history sections would have worked much better if they had been given their own dedicated section at the beginning of the book. Because those parts are fascinating. His larger point is actually very powerful. He traces how his family rose from slavery through education, perseverance, talent, luck, and the help of others, only for him to feel that Scientology pulled him back into another form of slavery entirely. That thematic connection is strong. It absolutely works conceptually. I just think the execution made the reading experience more confusing than it needed to be.

The same applies to many of the references scattered throughout the memoir. They are often interesting in isolation, but they are introduced so quickly that they rarely have enough weight to truly stay with the reader. He might briefly mention the history of a place they pass through, or reference a piece of music or a film that influenced him, but because the book moves so rapidly between ideas, many of these details end up feeling transient. You hear them, appreciate them for a second, and then they vanish before your brain has really attached meaning to them.

That said, the core of the memoir, Jamie’s own life inside Scientology, is genuinely compelling. I have read several memoirs by former Scientologists, including accounts by people born into the movement, and what stood out to me here was how different individual experiences can be. His story reminded me somewhat of Leah Remini at times, particularly in the atmosphere and instability of certain periods of his life, though their paths through Scientology were obviously not identical.

One thing I found especially interesting was his relationship with language. He deliberately avoids using Scientology terminology whenever possible. Instead of adopting Hubbard’s specialised vocabulary, he strips things down into plain language. And I completely understood why. Scientology language functions almost like coded speech. Words inside the movement often carry meanings that outsiders do not immediately understand, and learning those definitions is itself part of the indoctrination process. By refusing that vocabulary, he creates distance from it. There is something quietly defiant about that choice.

Ironically, though, there were also moments where his own wording became confusing. He repeatedly uses the word “illiterate,” but not always in the way most readers would immediately interpret it. He often means difficulty with written expression rather than an inability to read altogether. At times I had to mentally recalibrate what he meant.

I also listened to this as an audiobook, narrated by the author himself, and I eventually sped it up to 1.3x speed because he reads extraordinarily slowly. I normally listen to audiobooks at standard speed, so that really stood out to me.

Overall, I did enjoy this memoir, despite my frustrations with it. I think readers who enjoy unconventional, reflective memoirs full of cultural references and philosophical tangents will probably get much more out of the structure than I did. Personally, I would have preferred a tighter focus on Jamie’s own experiences and a clearer narrative organisation.

Still, as an account of what it feels like to be born into Scientology and shaped by it from childhood, it is unflinching, intelligent, and often deeply sad. More than anything, it is a book about identity, inheritance, and the terrifying ease with which a system can sever someone from their own history.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a heartbreaking account, I can't imagine. Hard to put down!

[ALEXANDRA MARIA · Rating 5 out of 5]

To hear a victim tell their story, in spite of it all, is spine-chilling. Jamie's narration is extremely emotional; chocking back his tears when recalling the few kindnesses shown to him growing up, and adopting a distinct detached tone when recounting situations no person should go through, let alone a child. I had to rewind and relisten to passages, being overwhelmed by his trembling voice, wondering how hard it must have been to read through and record.
Born into the surreal scientology Slave Cult, this memoir of indoctrination is a deeply disturbing account that sounds like science-fiction or a movie. Yet scientolody is science-fiction, and Hollywood and HNWIs are complicit in the enslavement of children in 'baby factories', who are then trafficked around the US as property, and manipulated beyond sanity with military grade torture tactics.
Most valuable in this text, are the personal confessions of the author's inner thoughts as he explains his journey from complete faith and immersion in the ideology he was born into, all the way through to his gradual deprogramming and the intense struggle faced in the aftermath of being labelled, by the cult's members, by society and by his own self-doubt. Additionally, his struggle to reclaim his identity and authentic family history, gives immense hope to all survivors and victims of abuse.
This story would make a great movie, demonstrating how anyone can rationalize suffering if they think it has meaning. A difficult yet fascinating life-story, filled with artistic and historic anecdotes.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars, rounded up.

This was a deep and thoughtful memoir of a horrific childhood within Scientology after being a lost child. It’s infuriates me the abuse, neglect, and racism Jamie faced every step of his life. His story is absolutely heartbreaking. It is amazing to me that he, with a start like that, worked so hard to learn to read and write and get an education, that he grew socially and learned how to fit in with the world with no guidance, that he persevered through the unimaginable. I stand in awe of his strength. The book is heavy and dark so please do pay attention to trigger warnings before reading. I listened to the audiobook and I do have to say it was difficult to get into at first. Jamie is reading this himself and it is clear he is distancing himself from the trauma enough to be able to read it. But that distance makes it hard to engage as a reader. I would recommend reading the physical book. I do wish it wa sa bit more condensed as sometimes it felt repetitive. But overall I was very touched and inspired by Jamie’s journey and success as an adult!

[Roe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Child X has left an impression within me that won’t soon be forgotten. Not only is this a memoir of exceptionally difficult, if not horrific life experiences of a remarkable human being – but Jamie also provides the reader such of depth of background and context, not only historically but including his own family origins. As a reader who loves being brought deep into the inner workings of the human experience, I found that Jamie shared his own story in a way that had me experiencing such guttural feelings within myself – Factual yet raw and woven together with the touch of an artist. With this book I feel that Jamie has shown a brilliant light into a dark, forgotten cavern filled with the untold stories, unseen horrors, and unheard cries of an entire generation of children who were utterly and inexcusably failed by the people who brought them into this world. I imagine those children would find great comfort and healing in knowing that, through this book, the trauma and injustice they endured will be remembered. Their story lives on.

[Willeke · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Child X" by Jamie Mustard is a truly moving and unforgettable book. From the very first page, it felt like Jamie was sharing a piece of his soul—honest, brave, and deeply heartfelt. The way he captures the complexities of childhood trauma and healing made me feel seen and understood in ways few books ever have. Jamie’s writing is raw but also filled with hope, showing that even in the darkest moments, strength and resilience can shine through.

What I loved most is how personal and real the story feels, like a conversation with a friend who knows exactly what you’re going through. Jamie’s warmth and empathy come through every chapter, making “Child X” not just a book but a companion on a healing journey. It’s a powerful reminder that we’re never truly alone, and that compassionate storytelling has the power to change lives. This book has stayed with me long after I finished it, and I’m grateful for the honesty and courage Jamie brings to every page.

[Holly Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A MUST READ!
I would give this book 10 stars if I could! I listened to it on Audible. Jamie's story of being born into the Cult of Scientology is absolutely abhorrent! I cannot believe in the U.S.A. these sorts of things are allowed to happen and to continue to happen! Jamie's intense, descriptive writing and the way he intertwines patchworks of history intermingling them with his unjustifiable and abusive upbringing in the cult was brilliant. He takes the reader on a long and winding train ride through his life and the obstacles he had to overcome to get to where he is today. This is a MUST READ! Thanks Jamie! (btw, I lived in Nashville for 30 years an went to Meharry on several occasions. Hopefully, I'll see in a chat somewhere to tell you my memories of it).

[Bernardo A · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very unique book describing a life of harrowing trauma starting in early infancy, through the vicissitudes of cultic conditioning and its psychological effects, slaving, forced labor followed by a long recovery from trauma, transformation, and success. The stories are vivid, moving, colorful, and with plenty of socio-cultural and historical contextual references, communal, political, and artistic, that give, at times, reprieve from the pain and suffering and enlightening insights about what it is to be human and this world, with wit and depth. There are plenty of musical references that anchor the journey, like sirens guiding the path.

[Claire Manners · Rating 5 out of 5]

What sets this book apart is the depth of Jamie’s insight. He speaks openly about his Black heritage and draws powerful parallels between historical slavery and the exploitation he lived through inside Scientology. It’s a comparison that is not only valid, but necessary.

This book is a lifeline, for survivors, for truth-seekers, and for anyone who believes children deserve protection. I hope Jamie’s bravery inspires more survivors to share their stories, because these abuses are still happening today.

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a look into a riveting reality that I never even knew existed. It’s a heart wrenching look into a childhood stolen by a brutal regime, cloaked in religiosity. This memoire is thought provoking and challenges you to see beyond the veil and norms of society; yet it is beautifully interwoven with adventure, culture, history, community and mystery. This book is a forerunner to the disguised world of Scientology, and an eclipse of a human soul destined to outlive it. I wouldn’t be surprised if this memoire makes the New York Times Best Seller List !

[Nanci Cueva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jamie Mustard’s remarkable story of survival, redemption, and resilience serves as a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity.

Unexpectedly, his memoir profoundly impacted my healing journey. As I delved into his narrative, I came to the realization that I, too, am a Child X.

Despite our vastly different upbringing, the striking similarities between our experiences became evident. I discovered that I was raised within a highly controlling environment, primarily influenced by my mother.

The book’s captivating narrative rendered it challenging for me to cease reading.

A profound truth that, with hope, will catalyze a transformative journey toward radical self-acceptance and self-love.

[Leslie Mosley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written. He avoids using the ugly, absurd language of the insane mind control movement called Scientology. The horrors the children endured were heartbreaking and so illegal. I loved how he wove the history of his family into the story. It’s ultimately an inspirational story of resilience and triumph over evil. Keep shedding light on this abusive tax exempt human slavery machine! Children cannot consent!!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read. Equal parts devastating and inspiring. A story of survival about an innocent child abandoned at birth and raised by a high pressure group. Despite the odds being against him the author managed to make his way to the London School of Economics and eventually to a great career as an author and artist. No matter how low you get in life there is still the opportunity to bounce back. A great life lesson is my take-away from this book. Thanks, Jamie

[Rob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Child X moves beyond a traditional memoir, carrying the reader through a deconstruction of the all-encompassing, disturbing system of Scientology—from the inside perspective of a child born and raised within its dehumanizing, monstrous walls. It’s the kind of story that resonates to the core—a must-read.

[Abigail Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Parsing disjointed recollection and memories like waypoints and smoke signals onto a map of recovery .. As I read this, I remembered things about my childhood that I hadn't thought of for many years. Whatever magic Jamie is weaving here is something that will tug at threads all over the globe.

[Tee Downunder · Rating 5 out of 5]

This memoir is not simply a recounting of trauma, it is an act of resistance. It ensures that those who would prefer silence do not get it. I hope others who were born into this organisation will find strength in Jamie’s voice and feel empowered to share their own.

[Meghan Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rising from illiteracy to publish a memoir is no small feat. Jamie Mustard provides insights into the little-known world of children born into Scientology and the process of reclaiming oneself after escape. His unique story is important to share. Thanks for the giveaway!

[Laura Uhles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read! This memoir details the horrific abuses of Scientology especially to the children raised by their influence but also highlights the powerful human spirit and it’s pure will to survive and succeed.

[Susan Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

A moving read. It held my attention from start to ending.

[Angela Stinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful and poignant!!! A beautifully written truth!