Catch Me If You Can: The True Story of a Real Fake

Catch Me If You Can: The True Story of a Real Fake is a nonfiction book written from the perspective of Frank Abagnale, a famous conartist and check-forger. Though styled as an autobiography, the book was co-written by Abagnale and author Stan Redding. Originally published in 1980, Catch Me If You Can was popularized by a 2002 film directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The book also inspired a Broadway musical of the same name.

Much of Catch Me If You Can revolves around Abagnale’s experience as a con artist from 1964 to 1969. Between the ages of sixteen and twenty-one, the world-wise Abagnale dons a wide variety of professional disguises and assumes jobs accordingly. These professions include copilot, doctor, lawyer, sociology professor, FBI agent, and U.S. Bureau of Prisons agent. Through the cashing of over $2.5 million in forged checks, Abagnale is able to finance a luxurious lifestyle, purchasing fine suits, expensive cars, and traveling around the world. During his travels, he pursues relationships with a number of women, many of whom work in the airline industry and unconsciously abet Abagnale’s crimes.

Abagnale cites his parents’ divorce as a major impetus for his criminal evolution.