A Billion Years
| Industry | Publishing |
|---|---|
| Products | Books |
A Billion Years: My Escape From a Life in the Highest Ranks of Scientology is a 2022 autobiography by Mike Rinder, who formerly served as executive director of the Office of Special Affairs and devoted five decades to Scientology.
Synopsis
The book chronicles Rinder’s journey within Scientology, starting from his childhood in Australia at age five. In 1973, he chose to join the Sea Org instead of pursuing university education, serving aboard the Apollo. He was appointed as a Watch Messenger for L. Ron Hubbard. Among four messengers, he played a role in taking control of the Guardian's Office amid legal battles involving Mary Sue Hubbard.
Rinder describes involvement in forbidden sexual conduct but received leniency after marrying the woman involved; together they had three children, one of whom tragically passed away from SIDS shortly after birth.
After Hubbard’s passing, Rinder assumed significant responsibilities under David Miscavige, including managing the Lisa McPherson case, counteracting Bob Minton’s efforts, promoting Hubbard’s legacy, and supervising the Psychiatry: An Industry of Death exhibition. His exit followed his designation as a suppressive person, which subjected him to severe treatment such as sleep deprivation and forced labor.
Upon departure, Rinder became a prime target of fair game policies, enduring surveillance and investigations by private detectives. Subsequently, he collaborated with Leah Remini on the series Scientology and the Aftermath.
Reception
The Guardian compared the memoir’s beginning to an adventure narrative, emphasizing Rinder’s commitment despite enduring harsh mistreatment. KCRW commended it for exposing the "secret inner workings" and revealing the "dark, dystopian truth" behind Scientology. A Jezebel contributor characterized it as a revealing account of the Church’s harassment strategies. The memoir also addresses Rinder’s personal challenges with disconnection from family members following his departure.