In the bustling streets of Paris during the 1920s, one man pulled off a scheme so daring it still shocks people today—he convinced wealthy businessmen that he had the power to sell the Eiffel Tower. This true story of wit, confidence, and deception takes readers into the extraordinary life of Victor Lustig, one of history's most infamous tricksters.
From his childhood in Austria-Hungary to his bold adventures across Europe and America, Lustig's life was filled with disguises, quick thinking, and unbelievable scams. He tricked rich travelers on ocean liners, dazzled powerful men with a fake "money-printing machine," and even fooled hardened gangsters. But his most audacious plan—convincing scrap metal dealers that Paris was tearing down its most famous landmark—remains one of the greatest scams ever attempted.
This book doesn't just tell the story of one man's trickery; it explores why people believed him. Greed, pride, and trust in appearances made even the smartest victims vulnerable. Alongside the excitement of Lustig's adventures, young readers will discover lessons about honesty, curiosity, and the importance of using intelligence for good.
Blending history with suspense, this fascinating account introduces kids to a true tale that feels stranger than fiction, reminding us that while cleverness can amaze, integrity lasts far longer than quick tricks.