About This Book

A two-time Newbery Honor Book author has written an amazing account of one of America's most famous hoaxes!

When a 10-foot tall purported "petrified man" is unearthed from a backyard in upstate New York in 1869, the discovery immediately turns into a spectacle of epic proportions. News of the giant spreads like wildfire, and well over a thousand people come to view him in the first five days alone!

Everyone has their own idea of his true origin: Is he an ancient member of the local Onandaga Indian tribe? Is he a biblical giant like Goliath? Soon the interests of world-renowned scientists and people from around the globe are piqued as arguments flare over who he is, where he came from, and if he is real, or just a hoax.

In a riveting account of how the Cardiff Giant mystery snowballed into one of America's biggest money-making spectacles (and scams), Jim Murphy masterfully explores the power of 19th-century media and the unexpected ripple effect that a single corrupt mastermind can produce when given a stage.

Praise for The Giant and How He Humbugged America

“Thoroughly engaging…[a] fascinating story.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“Thought-provoking…and intriguing.” — Booklist, starred review

“Fun, exciting, and lively.” — School Library Journal, starred review

About the Authors or Illustrators

Jim Murphy

Jim Murphy is celebrated for his engaging and carefully researched nonfiction for young readers. His more than thirty-five books include two Newbery Honor Books, The Great Fire and An American Plague (which also won the Sibert Award), and Blizzard!, which was named a Sibert Honor Book.

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