Fake memoir

A fake memoir is a type of literary forgery in which a wholly or partially fabricated autobiography, memoir or journal of an individual is presented as fact. In some cases, the purported author of the work is also a fabrication.

Fake memoirs frequently feature claims of overcoming overwhelming issues, such as bereavement, abuse, addiction, poverty, or gang violence. These issues are written about in dramatic, sordid ways, which can make them come across as misery literature. They may also exaggerate or fabricate connections to a minority group or a culturally traumatic event.