Delusion: Growing Up in an Amish Jewish Cult, Book 1

Patricia Hochstetler
Baker Trittin Press (2007)
ISBN 9780978731649
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer for Reader Views (9/08)


As an avid reader, I have read most of Ms. Hochstetler’s books, but this book really made me look at what we will endure to find faith.

Patricia Hochstetler’s parents were very faithful Amish people; one day they were captured in body, mind and spirit by a man only known as the Elder. His ability to cite the Bible word for word led them from a sunny world to one of deception, total abandonment of family, friends and a happy lifestyle. How could one not get medical care for a child who needed it? Or, be told what to wear and how to act?

The underlying process is that of a cult, a place where one gives up all identity to follow a religious leader. Ms. Hochstetler takes us through her early years trying to be faithful and follow the golden rule; however, the more she attempts to be good, the more is taken away from her. This is the story of her years between ages four and six-- she questions if God really would make her family suffer or excommunicate her mother because of false charges by the Elder.

“Delusion” by Patricia Hochstetler is a book you can’t put down. As a college professor I have studied cults for five years and I am still amazed at what individuals are willing to sacrifice to live the good life.

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