#13864
Mentioned in 4 episodes
The Fraud
A Novel
Book • 2023
Zadie Smith's "The Fraud" is a historical novel set in 19th-century London, centered around the infamous Tichborne trial.
The novel explores themes of identity, justice, and the power of belief in a captivating narrative.
Smith masterfully weaves together historical details with contemporary social commentary, creating a compelling story that resonates with modern readers.
The characters are richly drawn, and their struggles with identity and belonging are both relatable and thought-provoking.
The novel's exploration of populism and the manipulation of truth is particularly relevant in today's political climate.
"The Fraud" is a testament to Smith's literary skill and her ability to connect historical events with contemporary issues.
The novel explores themes of identity, justice, and the power of belief in a captivating narrative.
Smith masterfully weaves together historical details with contemporary social commentary, creating a compelling story that resonates with modern readers.
The characters are richly drawn, and their struggles with identity and belonging are both relatable and thought-provoking.
The novel's exploration of populism and the manipulation of truth is particularly relevant in today's political climate.
"The Fraud" is a testament to Smith's literary skill and her ability to connect historical events with contemporary issues.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 4 episodes
Mentioned by Deborah Treisman as one of Zadie Smith's six novels, published in 2023.
Zadie Smith Reads “The Silence”
Mentioned by Nicky Birch as a big bestseller, discussing its themes of historical fiction, Victorian England, empire, and the reappraisal of Dickens's opinions on slavery.
Winter Reading 2025
Mentioned by 
Ezra Klein ; a novel about a trial in 19th-century London with resonances to 21st-century America.
Ezra Klein ; a novel about a trial in 19th-century London with resonances to 21st-century America.
Zadie Smith on Populists, Frauds and Flip Phones
