Manson_Author

Charles Manson is in no way insane. Everything he does is calculated. He promised his followers that, if arrested, he'd put on a "Crazy Charlie"act, and that is what he's done for 44 years.

There's something new on almost every page, from the real facts of Manson's childhood to the day-to-day life of the Family at Spahn Ranch to new information about the Tate-LaBianca murders and subsequent trial (for instance, I found the bailiffs who were assigned to Manson throughout, and they had stories to tell about behind the scenes. Helter Skelter is an amazing book, and mine is a companion to it rather than competition. Vincent Bugliosi could not have been more generous in the help he provided to me while I was doing my own research. I'm grateful to him.

Manson is a master of manipulation. He's used the media to not only keep his name out there, but to do it in such a way that he continues to seem interesting. He's created an aura of magic and mysticism about himself. Maybe my book can demystify him. I hope so.

Charlie is a sort of celebrity in prison. He has sometimes been isolated from the main population for fear another inmate will try to kill him for the attention that would result.

Despite a letter a day that I sent to him for five months, Manson would not see me. He did write to me, and also gave permission for me to use some of his prison art in the photo section of the book. Physically, he's apparently fine. He has lots of modern-day followers who send him gifts and treats.