A review by kurtwombat
Sociopath by Patric Gagne

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3.0

 
I listened to the audiobook version of  SOCIOPATH: A MEMOIR.  Aside from Stephen Fry, this was probably the best narration by the author I have heard for an audiobook. Specifically, the author reflecting different aspects of herself with subtle variations of her own voice was quite effective. The voice and writing are all very persuasive—well crafted to have you believe the compelling path you are on.  And you are happy to walk that path—the author has a successful and  interesting life to talk about. Because of her status as a self-professed Sociopath she has a life that could turn at any second—and all come undone. Or at least that’s the plot line. 
 
The idea of a sociopath is very compelling. The idea of a self-aware sociopath even more so. Almost like seeing a Unicorn. But gradually the author’s credibility begins to evaporate. During the second part of the book, when focusing on her education and her study of sociopathy, the nuts and bolts of her schooling feel like a hazy dream.  By then it’s almost like someone came up to you and said they were a ghost. They may appear sincere and have good arguments—but really, a ghost? 
 
Having heard the whole book now and done some background reading on the story—the whole book now feels like a performance piece. Perhaps if Andy Kaufman were still alive and began writing books it would feel something like this. There is a peculiar genius at work here—real or not—that cannot be easily dismissed. A sharp and tightly designed world is created where everything seems to box you in (reflecting the manipulative nature of a sociopath or someone pretending to be one).  I enjoyed listening to this book but I am left unsettled.  Almost as if the book was a flash mob that appeared out of nowhere, performed and then disappeared again leaving no trace of the whole experience. Where did this book take me—I’m just not sure. 

Part of feeling unsettled, I feel that ironically a sociopath was using my own empathy against me. 
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