I inadvertently started this book about a week ago, not realizing the 40th anniversary of the mass suicide at Jonestown was approaching. As I finished reading the account of the final days of Jonestown (on November 18, 2018), I could not sleep or put this book down; it was too enthralling. Reading the accounts of survivors and quotes from the recording gave me chills. Now, in the wee hours of November 19, 2018, forty years and one day after the tragedy recorded in this book, I feel more connected to a part of history I never fully understood. I have never heard a recording of Jim Jones, nor have I heard the final recording from November 18, 1978. I never understood why anyone would have gone to Guyana to live in the jungle and eventually die because someone told them to. I can’t say I understand fully now, but I definitely understand how events unfolded and I have more sympathy for those who lost their lives and for the survivors.

Also, don’t ever say, “don’t drink the kool-aid” and laugh. Over 900 people died from the cyanide in the flavor-aid (not kool-aid), 1/3 of the victims were children; they all had names and families who love them. Over 400 of those found were never identified. Don’t laugh at that phrase. Have a heart.

Thank you Jeff Guinn and those interviewed for providing a well-rounded view of the events surrounding Jim Jones and Jonestown. My heart goes out to Jimmy, Tim, and Stephan on this tragic anniversary.