The Only Girl in the World

This was a deep look at a young girl living under the thumb of her religious fanatic father. He has seemingly inexplicable rules and lessons for her to learn, often brutally. Throughout it all, Maude discovers a deep connection to animals and slowly learns to stand up for herself and question her father's teachings.

I though this was a beautiful work, and read really easily in terms of writing style. The chapters were short and to the point. The book chronicles Maude's journey to adulthood, and at the end has a touching chapter where the author reflects on her life in adulthood and shows a remarkable sympathy for her mother.

I would recommend this to anyone who is interested in nonfiction books about cults. I was disbelieving throughout that so many adults could enter into the house of this cult and not feel anything was off about how this little girl was treated.