Unlike Diuretics, the book that supports the science of matter over mind, Dianetics is a work of spiritual inquiry that in 1954 launched the international, intergenerational discipline known as Scientology. Understandably, its followers are a passionate lot, which occasionally brings them into conflict with others in ways that are, shall we say, rather impressive in terms of the level of zeal employed. Launching into the breach between fact and fiction, Rolling Stone contributing editor Janet Reitman discusses and signs Inside Scientology: The Story of America's Most Secretive Religion ($28, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt). Not to be confused with Robert Kaufman's groundbreaking 1972 expose Inside Scientology: How I Joined Scientology and Became Superhuman, Reitman's book examines everything from hardcore acolytes to the disaffected apostates — both groups inextricably linked to the gravity of Scientology. Even though Reitman received unparalleled access to Scientology officials, hitherto unseen documents and five years' worth of interviews, Scientology always brings out dueling factions – – so ditch that Zoloft and enjoy the fireworks! Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Blvd., W. Hlywd.;Thurs., Sept. 15, 7 p.m., free, (310) 659-3110, booksoup.com; Reitman also signs her book at Skylight Books on Fri, Sept. 16

Thu., Sept. 15, 7 p.m., 2011

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