The Psychopath Test

Written by: Jon Ronson

First line: This is a story about madness.

Why you should read this book: I really enjoyed reading about the experiences of a slightly neurotic journalist who begins to investigate an unusual hoax in the science community and ends up becoming an expert in spotting psychopaths, who, as it turns out, are everywhere, but especially in positions of power. Ronson's journey brings him into contact with scientists and CEOs and death squad leaders and Scientologists, committed criminals and Truthers who should probably be committed. It's a fun book on a slightly scary subject, which does an excellent job of explaining how one percent of the population enjoys ruining things for the rest of us.

Why you shouldn't read this book: You believe 9/11 was an inside job.