EXCELLENT! I recommend reading this if you are interested in cults, language, or psychology.If you want to learn how to recognise these tactics and avoid being taken in by cultish language in all areas of life, this one is for you!

I’ve always been drawn to the concept of cults, but never delved farther than what a brief google search or Wikipedia page might lead me. Amanda’s summary and analysis of some of the most devastating, peculiar and often left of centre cults we’ve seen so far was an absolute ride. If you’re considering reading this, I say drink the Kool Aid.

This up to date study of the linguistics of what makes cults successful and how to recognise cults from MLM to fitness cults and instagram, this is the book you have been waiting for to answer those cult questions. I loved it. Great writer and great topic

Cultish is a must-read especially in a day and age when we are bombarded with an overwhelming amount of information--much of it garbage -- along with oily influencers and shady "thought leaders."

I bought Cultish because I loved Wordslut, not because I care about cults, and Montell didn't disappoint. Her argument is that language is the thread tying real cults to Instagram influencers to SoulCycle, and she explores why we're drawn in, the warning signs, and how a bit of cultish belonging might just be part of being human. Fascinating read, even for someone not into cults. If you like cults or linguistics, it's a great one.

Excellent book about how cult leaders use language to manipulate followers. Written in an easy to read style it puts a lot of things into perspective particularly the terminating cliche used to shut down dissent.

This book surprised me with its candid assessment of the language and behaviour of cultish organisations. A must read for anyone wanting to understand this.

I loved that, although there are plenty of stories of people who have lost their lives, money and so many other things to cults and unhealthy communities, the book, on the whole, feels non-judgemental and, often, compassionate to how people fall into these situations and become swept away by cults and bad relationships.

Grew up in a cultish church and I've read the books and watched the docs, so I expected shallow pop-science that just confirmed what I already knew. It did confirm it, but it went deeper. Written with authority and real compassion, it never judges the people who join, it recognises the very human need to belong in all of us. Truly excellent.

This book is very compelling. The author has an interest in the language of cults in both religious and non religious contexts.

This was a quick summer read. I gobbled up the book in one sitting.

Cultish is about the language of fanaticism "in its many forms." Montell covers the extremes (Scientology, Jim Jones, Heaven's Gate), but she's sharpest on the everyday: MLMs, fitness brands, yoga instructors. Her point isn't to make you avoid these groups, but to give you the tools to recognise cultish language with a clear head.

Unlike anything I’ve run across. Overcoming the limitations of language to access raw thought is mind-bending. It forces a pause between your thoughts that stays with you long after you put the paperback down.

A book about linguistics may sound dry, however, Montell’s trademark humor, to-the-point writing style and illuminating interviews make for a binge-worthy read. I honestly can’t recommend this one enough… although it’s only July, I’m certain it will make my list of all time favorites. 

Cultish is a fascinating look at how language, ritual, and even diet manipulate people, not just in cults but in businesses, churches, and "spiritual" groups. Montell's journalistic style and gripping interviews expose the specific word patterns that mesmerise. I suspect some negative reviews come from MLM folks stung by having their scripts exposed; their nitpicks over minor facts are trivial. Rigorous, entertaining, highly recommended.