American Psycho (Picador 40th Anniversary Edition)

Bret Easton Ellis

Feb 2012 · Pan Macmillan

About this ebook

Even before its publication in 1991, American Psycho captured the attention and imagination of readers. Now an acknowledged modern classic and a multimillion-copy bestseller, it continues to be one of the most talked-about books of all time. A film based on the novel, starring Christian Bale, was released in 2000.

Patrick Bateman is twenty-six and works on Wall Street; he is handsome, sophisticated, charming and intelligent. He is also a psychopath. Taking us to a head-on collision with America’s greatest dream – and its worst nightmare – American Psycho is a bleak, bitter, black comedy about a world we all recognize but do not wish to confront.

In 2012 Picador celebrated its 40th anniversary. During that time we have published many prize-winning and bestselling authors including Bret Easton Ellis and Cormac McCarthy, Alice Sebold and Helen Fielding, Graham Swift and Alan Hollinghurst. Years later, Picador continue to bring readers the very best contemporary fiction, non-fiction and poetry from across the globe.

Discover more at picador.com/40

Ratings and reviews

Once in a while a book comes along that is so high profile and controversial. American psycho is one of these books. Yes its gruesome, terrifying and horrific, but I couldn't put the book down as Patrick Batemans psychotic nature develops throughout each progressing chapter. I just wanted to know what he did next, even though I knew it would've been worse than last time. Many reviewers have stated that they won't read this book a second time. I sure would. Love the movie too.

I think the unusual and interesting subject matter is the reason this book is regarded as classic in some circles. While I appreciate the tension and the believibility of this story there is always something missing here. There is no change in the character or questioning of motivation, it is merely a stint in a killers life, observing what he does rather than emphasizing or understanding him. As such there is always a detachment and consequently a loss of empathy.

A good book. Though 3 stars is too little and 4 too much, I think a 3.5 leaning towards 4 is fair. Not for the faint hearted and must understand it is satire. Best bit in my mind 'Summer' so much so it could even make you feel sorry for Mr Bateman. Glad I read it, but not up there with my favourite reads.

About the author

Bret Easton Ellis is also the author of Less Than Zero, The Rules of Attraction, American Psycho, The Informers, Glamorama, and Lunar Park, and his work has been translated into twenty-seven languages. He lives in Los Angeles.