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Reviewed by: Heather Maneiro, High School Librarian Title: Dinner for Vampires: Life on a Cult TV Show
Author: Bethany Joy Lenz
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Year: 2024 Good for Grades: 10-12, Adult Genre/Type of Book: Memoir
Content Warnings, or things that other School Librarians should be aware of: Cult, Domestic Violence, Mild Language
Recommended for a school library: Yes Reason(s) for choosing the book: Book of the Month Selection
If you were tasked by the publisher with writing a short quote for the back cover of this book, what would it be:
You don't have to be stupid to be taken advantage of, you just have to be vulnerable (and aren't we all)?
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Review:
Abstract and Mini-Review
The Oxford Languages (google) dictionary provides the primary definition for the word cult as “a system of religious veneration and devotion directed toward a particular figure or object”, but it is the next definition “a relatively small group of people having religious beliefs or practices regarded by others as strange or sinister” that most would think of. Bethany Joy Lenz, our beloved Haley from One Tree Hill, was indeed involved with such a group while she was on the cult TV show. Not a member of the more famous Hollywood cults of NXIVM or even the Church of Scientology, Bethany hesitated at first to share her story. After all, she was just involved with a small family bible-study group. However, fans (definitely not the right word!) of Laura Richards will instantly recognize the coercive control placed on Bethany Joy to rip her of her spark, her joy, and the money she earned. Luckily, Bethany was able to remove herself and her child and is sharing her story to show how easy it can be to be caught up and influenced in this way. Personally, I felt joy that Bethany did not lose her faith through this ordeal but rather was able to connect to other spiritual leaders to help her heal.
Students may not be as drawn to this memoir as to McCurdy’s I’m Glad My Mom Died as they have more of a connection with iCarly than One Tree Hill, but as an early fan of One Tree Hill, I definitely connected and loved reading more about the actors and the story lines. I found Lenz’s memoir just as engaging as McCurdy’s and will definitely be recommending it. Lenz’s, I felt, had a more hopeful ending.
Recommendation Justification
Cults and sensationalism of them always prove to be very popular. This story provides insight and ends in hope.
Uses in the Library/Classroom
Another great example of memoir for Sophomore study. Lenz even provides insight into her process using personal journals and press from the time in addition to more recent interviews.
Appropriateness of Artwork
The connection to vampires is briefly revealed, but I did find the art a bit creepy.
Number of party hats:
You can find more information about this book at the publisher's website.