In August 2024, Joel E. Crosby held a book presentation for the launch of the Dutch translation of his book Escaping the Potter’s House, bringing together three authors who have experienced and survived life within cults. Alongside Israel van Dorsten, author of Wij Waren, Ik Ben – Weg Uit Ruinerwold, and Jan van der Winden, author of Gekke Jantje: Van voor gek verklaard, opgesloten en opgejaagd ‘sektekind’ tot specialist bij de politie, they shared their stories with an audience that was eager to listen, learn, and connect.
Israel, Jan, and Joel have each been members of cults, and through those experiences they have come to understand the impact of cults and the journey to reclaiming a life. The event was a chance to share that understanding, and more importantly, a chance to connect with others who may have been affected by similar experiences or who want to understand the reality of life in a cult.
We organized a small book presentation and booked a beautiful location, unsure of how many people might be interested in attending. To our surprise and delight, the event sold out within a few days. The demand was so high that we couldn’t accommodate everyone who wanted to attend, which is why we’re already planning another presentation for a larger audience.
For Crosby, who struggles with stage fright, speaking in front of an audience of 64 people was nerve-wracking, especially sharing his biggest trauma so openly. Jan van der Winden spoke first, sharing his harrowing experiences in an anthropological cult. Israel van Dorsten followed, recounting how he spent nine years trapped on a farm by his father. Crosby spoke last, and the response from the audience was overwhelming.
After the presentations, the floor opened for a Q&A session, followed by a meet and greet and book signings. The conversations were meaningful and heartfelt.
