Review: The Greatest Hoax on Earth by Alan C. Logan

Upending one of America’s most fascinating modern legends, The Greatest Hoax on Earth: Catching Truth, While We Can by Alan C. Logan is a revelatory historical exposé. For those who have seen the movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio or read the book Catch Me If You Can, Frank Abagnale Jr. may not be a an unfamiliar figure, but as this book proves, that charming and wildly successful con man may not deserve his legacy.

It is clear that the author spent years accumulating the impressive catalogue of evidence this book presents, not to mention organizing and arranging it to deliver a compelling narrative. Utilizing the insight from countless individuals – though leaning heavily on Paula Campbell and Mark Zinder – the author methodically unravels the real truth of this young swindler, rather than working to rebuke the stories that Abagnale has held to be true for most of his life.

Through witness reports, newspaper clippings, personal letters, interviews with victims, and other sources of the public and private record, the author tears down the self-constructed facade of Abagnale to show that the “millions” he claims to have swindled from Pan Am may have only totaled a few thousand, and the luxurious lifestyle that DiCaprio showcased on screen was likely a gross overstatement.

History has made Abagnale into a silver-tongued folk hero, but Logan argues that the greatest con he ever pulled was convincing people of his own clever schemes and rampant criminal success. Despite contradictory claims, the difficulty of finding “proof” in a pre-internet era, and the secretive nature of Abagnale to cover his own deceptive tracks, this book is an investigative gemstone that deserves a great deal of praise.

Aside from the pure historical relevance of getting this truth out, there is also the matter of this book’s place in today’s tumultuous conversation. Time and time again in this tale of a con artist we see lies and manipulation that resonate with large groups of people – a situation reflected in our own era, when truth and fact are increasingly up for debate. Charlatans and liars are nothing new, and must be identified when they rise to power; this book is a hard-hitting reminder that diligence and critical thinking are essential weapons against con men and leaders alike.

Technically speaking, the book is neatly edited, smartly structured and easy to follow, even if one isn’t familiar with the case. The narrative occasionally drags, and can be too procedural in the day-to-day accounts of Abagnale’s behavior that don’t seem crucial to the story. Additionally, it is clear that Logan has a personal dislike of Abagnale, or at least strong disapproval mixed with begrudging respect, which marks the writing style. At times, this authorial opinion can make the story feel snarky, angry, or even petty, but this personal and emotional investment also makes the writing come across as even more impactful than traditional nonfiction.

Part narrative documentary, part legal discovery, part timely warning, and part vindication for countless victims, The Greatest Hoax on Earth is a truly eye-opening read into the mirage of an American myth.