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Andy McNab: soldier, writer, psychopath

The former elite soldier on how learning to read aged 16 taught him empathy.

Andy McNab's books have sold millions of copies around the world. And while his name will be recognisable to many, his true identity is known to very few. After years working in the British special forces, he uses a pseudonym and conceals his face in photos for his own safety. Andy took part in some of the most daring raids in British military history, but is best known for his writing. Surprisingly, he only learned to read aged 16. He credits reading with teaching him empathy, which, as a diagnosed psychopath, he had to learn. He spoke to Jo Fidgen about his childhood, military career, and his writing. His new children's book is called Get Me Out of Here and has been co-written by Phil Earle.

Image: silhouette of a soldier
Credit: Getty Images/south agency

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24 minutes

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