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Child X: A Memoir of Slavery, Poverty, Celebrity, and Scientology
"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.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 29, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
July 11, 2025
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 🎧
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 🎧
August 13, 2025
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!
October 6, 2025
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!
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!
November 13, 2025
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.
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.
October 29, 2025
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.
September 3, 2025
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.
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.
August 2, 2025
“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!
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!
August 6, 2025
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.
November 1, 2025
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.
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.
July 23, 2025
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!
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!
November 6, 2025
"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.
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.
August 23, 2025
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).
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).
November 4, 2025
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.
November 23, 2025
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.
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.
November 25, 2025
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 !
August 4, 2025
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.
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.
August 3, 2025
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!!
August 9, 2025
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.
November 18, 2025
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.
January 5, 2026
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!
September 14, 2025
A moving read. It held my attention from start to ending.
November 23, 2025
Child X is one of the most important books I’ve ever read. I read it and listened to the audio, and both shook me deeply. Jamie Mustard’s courage in telling his story, after everything he endured, is nothing short of extraordinary.
Scientology need to be held accountable
Scientology need to be held accountable
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews