Absolutely, reading Steve Hassan's books is a critical part of understanding what was done to us all. I've read his first two books and am currently reading his latest, 'Freedom of Mind', and I definitely recommend this as essential reading for all you lurkers out there, faders, and all ex-JWs.
Let me tell you, I used to doze off from time to time at meetings. After I read Steve Hassan's books, I never fell asleep at a meeting again. The tone of voice they use and the music they play is also a part of lulling your mind to a standstill. I didn't fully grasp that part until I was mentally free, and hearing my wife listen to the meeting over the phone one day. Everyone has this same zombie-like tone of voice at the meetings, when they comment, the person giving the talk, all of that.
I've also come to understand from my own dealings with JW family members that they will never believe they are under some 'destructive influence' (which is the new term Steve Hassan is using these days rather than 'mind control'). There is a very strong resistance to any attack on the belief system or the leaders. Hassan explains why very clearly. One thing that's said over and over is NEVER to criticize the group, the leadership, or the teachings in front of your family member or friend who is in a cult. (Naturally it's first instinct to do so, but it never turns out well.)
Anyway, this is a very good thread to keep close to the top!
--sd-7