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Air date: Dec. 22, 2024
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JESSICA:
Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I’m the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.
Today's two reading recommendations are both centered around misfits. One book is a memoir and the other is a humorous novel.
First, we’re going to hear from Jennifer, library associate at the Camano Island Library, for a chilling exploration through the mind of someone living without empathy. Take it away, Jennifer.
JENNIFER:
Thanks, Jessica. “Sociopath: A Memoir” written by Patric Gagne is an eye-opening journey into the mind of someone living with sociopathy. The author shares her experiences, offering readers a rare glimpse into a world that is often misunderstood and stigmatized.
What stands out about this memoir is its ability to humanize a condition that is usually demonized in the media and in the movies. The author doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of her personality (like stealing cars, breaking and entering, and a scary close call with a cat) but she also highlights moments of vulnerability and a lifelong frustration with not feeling what other people feel and then feeling frustrated by that.
What I found most interesting is the author’s idea that there is a spectrum of intensity for sociopaths, kind of like the autism spectrum. People with sociopathy can fall at different points on the spectrum — on one end you have the headline makers including serial killers and mass murderers, while on the other end you might have someone who just has difficulty recognizing emotions.
The book has a nice balance of wild escapades the author takes and clinical research on the topic. Are there parts of Patric Gagne’s memoir that I can relate to? Yes. Will I tell you which ones? Absolutely not.
JESSICA:
Thanks, Jennifer! I’m fascinated by the idea of a sociopathic spectrum. Sounds like a gripping read.
Next, let’s switch gears to a humorous story of an office worker gone rogue, with Kerry, cataloging and acquisitions assistant. Go ahead, Kerry.
KERRY:
“I Hope This Finds You Well” by Natalie Sue is a sharply funny comic novel about forgiving yourself, facing your fears, and navigating life’s biggest complications.
Jolene Smith feels like an outcast — in the office and in life. Relationships with her family and friends are in tatters, and she barely gets along with her coworkers. When some regrettable email decisions backfire and get her into serious trouble at work, Jolene knows a reckoning is due.
At the beginning of remedial sensitivity training, Jolene discovers HR has accidentally given her access to her coworkers’ emails and messaging apps. At first Jolene plans to use this information to her own advantage. But after learning more about her co-workers’ deepest fears and worries via their private messages, Jolene realizes that everyone feels lost at times, everyone feels frightened, and everyone needs help finding their way back to themselves. The question is, how do you turn things around and plot a better course for the future?
Told with humor and a touch of romance, this book is funny, moving, and inspiring in equal measure. Perfect for fans of “Nice Work, Nora November” by Julia London, “What Alice Forgot” by Liane Moriarty, and “Where’d You Go Bernadette?” by Maria Semple.
JESSICA:
Thanks, Kerry! Sounds like a lovely blend of comedy and heartwarming moments.
Our recommendations this week are: “Sociopath: A Memoir” by Patric Gagne and “I Hope This Finds You Well” by Natalie Sue.
Join us next time, when we’ll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.
Until then, I’m Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.
Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz on KSER.
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