num_pages: 104
description: Influenced by the rise of the science of psychology and the turmoil of the early 20th century, A Perfect Hoax is an ironic and affectionate story of illusion, self-deception, and impracticality in a practical world. Mario Samigli is in his seventies; he has all but given up his cherished aspirations as a writer and smiles at the world through his one remaining literary outlet—fables. When a travelling salesman with a taste for practical jokes persuades him that a Viennese publishing company wants to translate his early failed novel, Mario is caught in a fantasy of success and fame, and neglects his beloved invalid brother. A Perfect Hoax follows the elaborate prank as it escalates, forcing Mario blindly down a road that can only lead to disappointment.
language: English
title: A Perfect Hoax
titlecomplete: A Perfect Hoax
genres: Italian Literature, Classics, Roman, Italy, Short Stories, Novella, 20th Century, Fiction
ratings_count: 444
publisher: Hesperus Press