An interesting book which plays well with the idea of truth and all the interpretations therein. Phillips writes the novel as if has been given an unpublished play by Shakespeare. The problem is the play comes from his father, who not only knew Shakespeare's work well, but was also the ultimate con man. Phillips writes the introduction as a memoir to this new play, even though in the end he is convinced it is yet another fraud on the part of his father.The play itself continues these themes, but raises the stakes by examining even more the concept of who we are in truth. All of this is done with a good deal of humor, self-loathing on the writer's part, and an impressive "fake" play by Shakespeare.Shakespearean devotees will love the references and hidden meanings, but those without the background can enjoy it as well -- especially since Phillips (in his "memoir") takes so many shots at what he sees as the boring bard.