Hoax: Donald Trump, Fox News, and the Dangerous Distortion of Truth

journalistic offering... Brian Stelter has penned a giant tattletale, nothing more. What he has posted in the back of the book for NOTES, is simply a listing of who said what to whom. It’s certainly not any database of documentation a reader can research. I purchased this book because of his credentials, with the hope of learning something new or new insight and all I got was the newsroom version of schoolyard one ups and sour grapes: my newsroom is better than your newsroom; GIANT SIGH🙄 The book is written in a series of venues that actually lends itself to a miniseries. Since the book reads like fiction, perhaps turning it into a script for Saturday Night w/CNN would be a good use for these pages of fodder. It’s easy reading but not particularly well written. The chapters are VERY long, repetitious and self aggrandizing. The real “HOAX” here has been perpetrated against the reader. NOT RECOMMENDED 📚

Stelter does a public service with this book, though those who need to read it most very llkely won't do so. It shows how the morally unsavory Roger Ailes was put in charge of Fox News by conservative Australian billionaire Rupert Murdoch and turned it into a rightwing propaganda machine. Stelter also shows how far back Ailes and Trump went--and Fox's role, thanks to Ailes, in turning Trump into someone conservatives listened to about politics. It was 2011 when Ailes started a weekly call-in feature every Monday with Trump on "Fox and Friends" As Stelter says "the show reflected Ailes's hatred of Obama, fear of Muslims, and comfort with white male dominance." Trump was a natural fit, and Ailes gave him a forum to share the so-called "birtherism" that would launch Trump's political career and set the stage for his presidency. Stelter shows how Fox found the big pile of money that was available to those who could convincingly peddle the attacks and defenses that their conservative audience wanted to hear. Sean Hannity--the college dropout who Ailes had plucked from a talk radio outlet and turned into a mega-star--was so influential with President Trump that White House aides called him the chief of staff. Sometimes Trump would ask for Fox's Lou Dobbs to be patched in during meetings with his economic advisers. They were all concerned with the same thing: popularity, ratings, money and power. Stelter shows that this was a dangerous relationship before the covid pandemic in America; after it, the relationship was literally deadly.. The more Trump spread misinformation and outright lies about the pandemic--it's cause, spread and his handling of it--the more FOX championed his actions. It didn't matter that the evening hosts' pro-Trump commentaries were invariably false. What mattered was telling the Trump (and Fox) "base" what they wanted to hear. Arguably, as Stelter writes, Trump and the Fox evening hosts and those on "Fox and Friends" have been complicit in a national tragedy that will see over 200,000 Americans killed by covid-19 by Election Day. Fox's determination to keep Americans ignorant of the danger of the virus, of Trump's gross negligence throughout the crisis, and of what people should be doing to stay safe, makes them also culpable for the deaths of thousands of people who would be alive today if they were wearing masks and social distancing. Instead of relying on experts, Trump and Hannity et al played politics--it was, after all, an election year--with devastating results. Surely, there should be some accountability, and a recognition that what Fox does--in the main--is not journalism. [I deducted one star because his narrative of the Trump vendetta toward Megyn Kelly omits much essential information and a timeline that puts in perspective just how dangerous a man like Donald Trump would be if given great power. Kelly writes in her autobiography that Trump not only knew her questions ahead of time, but pressured her and her exec producer not to ask the one about his past insults to women. She refused and afterwards suspected that he had her driver slip something into a Starbucks he insisted on getting for her. She became so ill that she almost didn't go on camera that night. In her memoir, Kelly described how Trump targeted her for months in tweets and other public comments in an effort to get revenge Kelly received plenty of hate mail, and Fox was so worried for her safety that they hired a bodyguard. It ended when Ailes eventually brokered a truce--with Kelly conducting a softball interview of Trump and both of them making nice for the camera. It's a revealing story about Trump's character and relationship with Fox that Stelter's narrative would have benefitted from including. In spite of this--and the way he shortchanges how negative Fox's impact was from Bill Clinton's last term through Obama's presidency--his book does a service. It's a sincere and detailed effort to help Americans see through the propaganda and essential dishonesty of the network and hosts they trust and turn to for an understanding of the world.]

Brian Stelter’s Hoax is a strikingly informative source on current events. Quite a few books describing Trump and his failings have been churned out over the past four years, but this one doesn’t belong with all the others, in my view. True enough, it is not flattering to Donald Trump. But the thrust of the book is the Donald Trump-Fox News “merger” that has now, finally, come to full fruition. Stelter tells the story of this merger, tracking different points in its evolution with incisive and often gripping detail. The book is teeming with stories that deserve mention: the steady shifts to the right of Fox following the 9/11 attacks and the Iraq War, the increasing empowerment of prime time personalities like Sean Hannity and Tucker Carlson, the Gretchen Carlson-Megyn Kelly feminist revolt and - on a related note - the careful use of attractive females (and their legs) in newsroom shoots. The careful, data-rich story he tells is so informative and compelling that I believe its long-term popularity is assured, not only for people like me who just want to keep up with things, but also for those with a professional interest in journalism. Very briefly, the saga that unfolds in Hoax is that of a kind of incestuous love affair between Donald Trump and Fox News that culminates in a virtual marriage. Figuring most prominently in the story are, Trump himself (of course), but also Roger Ailes, Rupert Murdoch, Sean Hannity, and the hosts of Fox and Friends. The saga is a deeply troubling one for citizens who want to trust the media and don’t regard reporters in general as “enemies of the people.” We do, after all, want to trust media figures to do their best to report the truth, even though, given ordinary human weaknesses, we often prefer some truths over others. Ironically, toward the end of the story, a post-White House Trump is portrayed by one of Fox’s personalities as a Frankensteinian monster. “They helped make him and he’s out of control. And no one knows how they will do once he’s gone.” This nightmare scenario envisages a Trump media empire backed by multiple billionaires and encompassing both television and internet elements. As one source put it, “With an entire network, Ivanka could have a show, and Don Jr. could have a show, and the Trump brand could span politics and culture and entertainment.” Stelter himself is doubtful about this prospect, but many readers will take it in as startling food for thought. But of course, many people would argue that a Trump media empire would be a far sight better than having Trump and his family minions continuing to run the entire executive branch of U.S. government. The most central concern of Stelter’s is the dissolution of the concept of media truth itself. He cites Peter Pomerantsov’s Nothing Is True and Everything is Possible, which describes the corrosive influence of propaganda in Putin’s Russia. If a political leader can convince a large portion of the public that media stories are nothing more than weapons in an amoral information war, nothing justifies any individual’s belief in any news item or any source. We are then simply left with the question of “Who is winning the information war?” This is the real nightmare we are facing, and the Fox-Trump merger has pushed us frighteningly close to its realization.

This book, pre-ordered, popped up on my Kindle just past midnight and then I read till my eyes gave out. The idea that a president of the United States ignores his official briefings and instead trusts Fox and Friends is both disgusting and frightening. Lives have been lost because Hannity fed Trump his lines (or is that 'lies') about Coronavirus. The behind the scenes machinations at Fox News are well documented. It's not pretty but it makes for fascinating reading about a culture that is so totally foreign to most of us. Thank God.

With CNN involved, you need to take this with a grain of salt. If you happen to be a liberal, you will love this book. If you're a conservative, you probably won't. It takes weak evidence to try to prove a conspiracy that doesn't exist. It's the same kind of flimsy evidence that the Democrats in the House used to impeach Donald Trump. It's the same kind of falsehoods Mueller used to prosecute the President's associates. The sad thing is that some people will actually believe this stuff. It's because the liberal indoctrination of our schools has created a group of brainwashed young adults that can't think for themselves. Fortunately, once these young folk get into the real world, enough of them see through the baloney and the liberal haze starts to disappear. Hopefully, if they read this book--which I doubt many will--they can get a good chuckle later in life when they think about how bad it is. I sometimes read books like this or watch CNN for a good laugh.

I found the book riveting and well written. Although I knew Trump and Fox News were married quite awhile ago it was fascinating to know the details. It has long been my belief that Fox should have deleted the word news from their title a long time ago. Hannity owns FOX and frankly in a way Trump. So many of Hannity's words come out of Trump's mouth verbatim. If Trump loses the election it will be interesting to see how Fox twists. I used to like Fox a long time ago but it was obvious that they really were not a news station. I gave them up. True example of FAKE NEWS.

Whomever gives this book bad reviews has got to be a Trump supporter that does not want any books out that are fact based. Brian has a great show on CNN and this book is great too!

I guess Brian Stelter is, at least in theory, quite possibly the most qualified person in America to speak authoritatively on the subject of "dangerous distortion of truth." It's hysterical how one junk media outlet constantly points and screams about the yin to their yang in complete denial of the fact that Fox News only EXISTS because the left hijacked the media quite some time before, and gradually destroyed concepts like journalistic integrity and even the mere illusion of unbiased reporting. They despise the Foxies, but Fox was a RESPONSE. And until a few years ago, what Fox was doing was no more and no less dangerous than what CNN was doing. And then CNN, MSNBC, et. al. upped the ante in a big, big way, destroying the semblance of credibility that they had left, to employ the nuclear option against a duly elected President.

This book was given to me as a gift. I read it with an open mind, but it was exactly what you expect - a one sided partisan attack on the president from an author with an agenda. If you hate trump, your will love this book and it will support everything you already think about him, factual or not. If you are looking for a unbiased factual profile of the president, skip this!

Seems to provide an analog version of MSM's effort to divide the country through a constant barrage of half truths.

journalistic offering... Brian Stelter has penned a giant tattletale, nothing more. What he has posted in the back of the book for NOTES, is simply a listing of who said what to whom. It’s certainly not any database of documentation a reader can research. I purchased this book because of his credentials, with the hope of learning something new or new insight and all I got was the newsroom version of schoolyard one ups and sour grapes: my newsroom is better than your newsroom; GIANT SIGH🙄 The book is written in a series of venues that actually lends itself to a miniseries. Since the book reads like fiction, perhaps turning it into a script for Saturday Night w/CNN would be a good use for these pages of fodder. It’s easy reading but not particularly well written. The chapters are VERY long, repetitious and self aggrandizing. The real “HOAX” here has been perpetrated against the reader. NOT RECOMMENDED 📚

Stelter does a public service with this book, though those who need to read it most very llkely won't do so. It shows how the morally unsavory Roger Ailes was put in charge of Fox News by conservative Australian billionaire Rupert Murdoch and turned it into a rightwing propaganda machine. Stelter also shows how far back Ailes and Trump went--and Fox's role, thanks to Ailes, in turning Trump into someone conservatives listened to about politics. It was 2011 when Ailes started a weekly call-in feature every Monday with Trump on "Fox and Friends" As Stelter says "the show reflected Ailes's hatred of Obama, fear of Muslims, and comfort with white male dominance." Trump was a natural fit, and Ailes gave him a forum to share the so-called "birtherism" that would launch Trump's political career and set the stage for his presidency. Stelter shows how Fox found the big pile of money that was available to those who could convincingly peddle the attacks and defenses that their conservative audience wanted to hear. Sean Hannity--the college dropout who Ailes had plucked from a talk radio outlet and turned into a mega-star--was so influential with President Trump that White House aides called him the chief of staff. Sometimes Trump would ask for Fox's Lou Dobbs to be patched in during meetings with his economic advisers. They were all concerned with the same thing: popularity, ratings, money and power. Stelter shows that this was a dangerous relationship before the covid pandemic in America; after it, the relationship was literally deadly.. The more Trump spread misinformation and outright lies about the pandemic--it's cause, spread and his handling of it--the more FOX championed his actions. It didn't matter that the evening hosts' pro-Trump commentaries were invariably false. What mattered was telling the Trump (and Fox) "base" what they wanted to hear. Arguably, as Stelter writes, Trump and the Fox evening hosts and those on "Fox and Friends" have been complicit in a national tragedy that will see over 200,000 Americans killed by covid-19 by Election Day. Fox's determination to keep Americans ignorant of the danger of the virus, of Trump's gross negligence throughout the crisis, and of what people should be doing to stay safe, makes them also culpable for the deaths of thousands of people who would be alive today if they were wearing masks and social distancing. Instead of relying on experts, Trump and Hannity et al played politics--it was, after all, an election year--with devastating results. Surely, there should be some accountability, and a recognition that what Fox does--in the main--is not journalism. [I deducted one star because his narrative of the Trump vendetta toward Megyn Kelly omits much essential information and a timeline that puts in perspective just how dangerous a man like Donald Trump would be if given great power. Kelly writes in her autobiography that Trump not only knew her questions ahead of time, but pressured her and her exec producer not to ask the one about his past insults to women. She refused and afterwards suspected that he had her driver slip something into a Starbucks he insisted on getting for her. She became so ill that she almost didn't go on camera that night. In her memoir, Kelly described how Trump targeted her for months in tweets and other public comments in an effort to get revenge Kelly received plenty of hate mail, and Fox was so worried for her safety that they hired a bodyguard. It ended when Ailes eventually brokered a truce--with Kelly conducting a softball interview of Trump and both of them making nice for the camera. It's a revealing story about Trump's character and relationship with Fox that Stelter's narrative would have benefitted from including. In spite of this--and the way he shortchanges how negative Fox's impact was from Bill Clinton's last term through Obama's presidency--his book does a service. It's a sincere and detailed effort to help Americans see through the propaganda and essential dishonesty of the network and hosts they trust and turn to for an understanding of the world.]

Brian Stelter’s Hoax is a strikingly informative source on current events. Quite a few books describing Trump and his failings have been churned out over the past four years, but this one doesn’t belong with all the others, in my view. True enough, it is not flattering to Donald Trump. But the thrust of the book is the Donald Trump-Fox News “merger” that has now, finally, come to full fruition. Stelter tells the story of this merger, tracking different points in its evolution with incisive and often gripping detail. The book is teeming with stories that deserve mention: the steady shifts to the right of Fox following the 9/11 attacks and the Iraq War, the increasing empowerment of prime time personalities like Sean Hannity and Tucker Carlson, the Gretchen Carlson-Megyn Kelly feminist revolt and - on a related note - the careful use of attractive females (and their legs) in newsroom shoots. The careful, data-rich story he tells is so informative and compelling that I believe its long-term popularity is assured, not only for people like me who just want to keep up with things, but also for those with a professional interest in journalism. Very briefly, the saga that unfolds in Hoax is that of a kind of incestuous love affair between Donald Trump and Fox News that culminates in a virtual marriage. Figuring most prominently in the story are, Trump himself (of course), but also Roger Ailes, Rupert Murdoch, Sean Hannity, and the hosts of Fox and Friends. The saga is a deeply troubling one for citizens who want to trust the media and don’t regard reporters in general as “enemies of the people.” We do, after all, want to trust media figures to do their best to report the truth, even though, given ordinary human weaknesses, we often prefer some truths over others. Ironically, toward the end of the story, a post-White House Trump is portrayed by one of Fox’s personalities as a Frankensteinian monster. “They helped make him and he’s out of control. And no one knows how they will do once he’s gone.” This nightmare scenario envisages a Trump media empire backed by multiple billionaires and encompassing both television and internet elements. As one source put it, “With an entire network, Ivanka could have a show, and Don Jr. could have a show, and the Trump brand could span politics and culture and entertainment.” Stelter himself is doubtful about this prospect, but many readers will take it in as startling food for thought. But of course, many people would argue that a Trump media empire would be a far sight better than having Trump and his family minions continuing to run the entire executive branch of U.S. government. The most central concern of Stelter’s is the dissolution of the concept of media truth itself. He cites Peter Pomerantsov’s Nothing Is True and Everything is Possible, which describes the corrosive influence of propaganda in Putin’s Russia. If a political leader can convince a large portion of the public that media stories are nothing more than weapons in an amoral information war, nothing justifies any individual’s belief in any news item or any source. We are then simply left with the question of “Who is winning the information war?” This is the real nightmare we are facing, and the Fox-Trump merger has pushed us frighteningly close to its realization.

This book, pre-ordered, popped up on my Kindle just past midnight and then I read till my eyes gave out. The idea that a president of the United States ignores his official briefings and instead trusts Fox and Friends is both disgusting and frightening. Lives have been lost because Hannity fed Trump his lines (or is that 'lies') about Coronavirus. The behind the scenes machinations at Fox News are well documented. It's not pretty but it makes for fascinating reading about a culture that is so totally foreign to most of us. Thank God.

With CNN involved, you need to take this with a grain of salt. If you happen to be a liberal, you will love this book. If you're a conservative, you probably won't. It takes weak evidence to try to prove a conspiracy that doesn't exist. It's the same kind of flimsy evidence that the Democrats in the House used to impeach Donald Trump. It's the same kind of falsehoods Mueller used to prosecute the President's associates. The sad thing is that some people will actually believe this stuff. It's because the liberal indoctrination of our schools has created a group of brainwashed young adults that can't think for themselves. Fortunately, once these young folk get into the real world, enough of them see through the baloney and the liberal haze starts to disappear. Hopefully, if they read this book--which I doubt many will--they can get a good chuckle later in life when they think about how bad it is. I sometimes read books like this or watch CNN for a good laugh.

I found the book riveting and well written. Although I knew Trump and Fox News were married quite awhile ago it was fascinating to know the details. It has long been my belief that Fox should have deleted the word news from their title a long time ago. Hannity owns FOX and frankly in a way Trump. So many of Hannity's words come out of Trump's mouth verbatim. If Trump loses the election it will be interesting to see how Fox twists. I used to like Fox a long time ago but it was obvious that they really were not a news station. I gave them up. True example of FAKE NEWS.

Whomever gives this book bad reviews has got to be a Trump supporter that does not want any books out that are fact based. Brian has a great show on CNN and this book is great too!

I guess Brian Stelter is, at least in theory, quite possibly the most qualified person in America to speak authoritatively on the subject of "dangerous distortion of truth." It's hysterical how one junk media outlet constantly points and screams about the yin to their yang in complete denial of the fact that Fox News only EXISTS because the left hijacked the media quite some time before, and gradually destroyed concepts like journalistic integrity and even the mere illusion of unbiased reporting. They despise the Foxies, but Fox was a RESPONSE. And until a few years ago, what Fox was doing was no more and no less dangerous than what CNN was doing. And then CNN, MSNBC, et. al. upped the ante in a big, big way, destroying the semblance of credibility that they had left, to employ the nuclear option against a duly elected President.

This book was given to me as a gift. I read it with an open mind, but it was exactly what you expect - a one sided partisan attack on the president from an author with an agenda. If you hate trump, your will love this book and it will support everything you already think about him, factual or not. If you are looking for a unbiased factual profile of the president, skip this!

Seems to provide an analog version of MSM's effort to divide the country through a constant barrage of half truths.

Provocative Attack on Fox News By CNN Journalist Difficult analysis to pay homage to. Charitably, this is an in-depth inquiry into the Trump enablers at Fox News. If one wanted to understand how Sean Hannity, Tucker Carlson and Laura Ingraham have Fed Trump’s obsessions, and manipulated him into becoming the champion of Fox News, this tome you Brian Stelter would be the key. Also, journalistically, it makes a good companion for Mary Trump’s scandalous “Too Much and Never Enough.” Probably not one reader will change their opinion of Trump or Fox News, let alone the pandemic. The fault will not rest with the author, for his reporting and sourcing is impeccable. What Stelter did best was to give us an interesting summation of what we already knew, but may have forgotten. LANGUAGE As might be expected, there are a few f-words included. In one case, spoken by a democrat stating he should hate Sean Hannity, but the private Hannity, “...is so nice to me.” Which brings us to the great service of this work: an insight into the better, kinder, more ‘real’ Sean Hannity than we’ve ever seen before. Excerpt 1 “...Americans knew that Trump was untrustworthy, but the Fox base still trusted him. They also trusted Hannity, who dismissed “coronavirus hysteria,” and Laura Ingraham, who called Democrats the “panDEMic party,” and Watters, who said, “I’m not afraid of the coronavirus and no one else should be that afraid either.” Fox’s longest-tenured medical analyst, Dr. Marc Siegel, told Hannity on March 6, “at worst, at worst, worst case scenario, it could be the flu.” This was shockingly irresponsible stuff—and Fox executives knew it, because by the beginning of March, they were taking precautions that belied Siegel’s just-the-flu statement. The network canceled a big event for hundreds of advertisers, instituted deep cleanings of the office, and began to put a work-from-home plan in place. Yet Fox’s stars kept sending mixed messages to millions of viewers. This went on and on until March 13, when Fox & Friends cohost Ainsley Earhardt claimed it’s “actually the safest time to fly” and guest Jerry Falwell Jr. said people were “overreacting” to the virus. Fox News CEO Suzanne Scott finally asserted herself and hauled the show’s producers into her their office. No more denialism, she said. But she was two or three weeks too late, just like Trump was. As ICU admissions surged and the death toll rose, Fox’s most vociferous critics said the network had blood on its hands. Four out of five Fox viewers were over the age of 55...” BOTTOM LINE This book is more of a hit job on Fox News than on Pres. Trump. In that sense, it is well-researched, but does seem a bit harsh to me. Read if you dare. Three stars out of five, because, even though it is well-researched, there just isn’t much new here.

Fox news panders to the right, Hoax panders to the left. What else would you expect from a CNN correspondent? The book basically tells you what you already believe and what you want to hear if you don't like Fox or Trump. There is no real value in this book except to fill Brian's pocket with $$$$$. It would be nice to go back to the days when news was really news instead of a political infomercial.

Call me old fashioned because i prefer the truth. This book has very, very little of this.

I have a degree from the University of Wisconsin—Madison, Journalism School. Graduated many years ago. I have been amazed, disappointed, frustrated, and quite cynical about what currently passes for “journalism.” This book lays out, in detail and often backed up by named sources, the demise of Fox as a news source, to be replaced shamelessly and unethically (journalistic standards that we were ALL taught in J school), by “opinion journalism.” I go to the Fox app every morning and evening for news (and go to several other local, national and international sites, too.). The vast majority of the headline stories (check it out) start with: “MICHAEL GOODWIN; DOUG SCHOEN; LIZ PEEK; ADRIANA COHEN, ETC. I don’t know these people. I don’t trust these people. Most importantly, I don’t want my “ news” coming via their opinions of the news. I thought it was me.... Hoax, in a scholarly, credible, well-supported, JOURNALISTIC way identifies and lays out how Fox has devolved and challenges us all to beware of how we get our news, from whom we get our news, and what we can believe about the news we get. Thank you, Mr. Stelter, for this book.

So this book is basically about Fox helping Trump. Is there going to be a followup book on how CNN, MSNBC, ABC etc etc etc tried to overthrow a duly elected president? This is just someone trying to make a profit off of people brainwashed by the DNC. I bet this review will get "filtered" by Amazon.

If I could have given it zero stars, I would have. This book is as awful as his news reporting is. Oh right, not reporting, his reporting of his opinion. Get a job, because clearly writing books and news reporting is not your forte.

This is the ultimate I-thought-I-knew, but-I-had-no-idea book. The president's fixation on Fox is even worse than people think.

A fast page-turner that helps explain the bizarre world we are living in. Fair and honest critique of the relationship between Trump and Fox News.

This is the worst book EVER! All it is is a bunch of LIES!!! Get a life and get over the failed 2016 election!!

I really am enjoying this book. Anytime you can go inside, behind the scenes of any newsroom, it can be very informative. Brian Stelter's book is just that. He's seems incredibly honest, especially concerning himself and things like: Hannity calling him "Humpty Dumpty" (which he does). I don't this book takes any unfair shots at FOX NEWS at all. No way I or any other reader can know if its all true or only partially so, but then I would tell those offering that, right your own books and I'll read them as well. This book is entertaining and enlightening. That's all I ask for.

I heard Brian Stelter on the Rachel Maddow show and was intrigued. This is the first book I have purchased related to Trump and did so because I am trying to understand what is in the mind of the Fox and Trump devotee. I have to admit the Prologue was scary. The rest of the book was enlightening. The symbiotic relationships between the "talent" at Fox and the sitting resident is unlike anything we have ever experienced. This high maintenance courting of Trump has led to Fox being the place where he gets his daily briefing. I also loved the phrase of "conservative victimhood" as that truly describes what I see. I do have a better understanding and now know better how to pick my battles. While his followers may truly be passionate, all that he and Fox care about is ratings and money. As long as that works, it will continue.

This book is worth the read, simply because it goes into excruciating detail about the symbiotic, self-reinforcing relationship between Donald Trump and Fox News. Of particular interest is the litany of seemingly inexplicable things 45 has tweeted, spoken and done over the years that emerged first from the TV network, not the White House. Hannity pontificates; Trump watches; Trump tweets; Hannity reinforces -- rinse and repeat. It's also fascinating to read how Fox News started battenning down the hatches for COVID-19 -- setting up work-from-home studios for its staff and stars, cleaning the offices, installing hand sanitizer stations -- while the right-wing pundits of the network were still pooh-pooh-ing the pandemic on the air. The book is minimally organized, so it's a bit of a slog. It's a long, carefully-researched series of individual issue and/or event stories, each with a sub-head. And it's a lot shorter than it looks, because the last third is footnotes and references (which makes it clear that the author isn't makin' this stuff up).

HOAX is a well-written expose detailing the life and adventures of our 45th president, beginning with the day he rode down the escalator. Brian Stelter, the chief media correspondent for CNN Worldwide, shows us all his flamboyance and his penchant for hyperbole and lies. Sean Hannity figures prominently in this story, and in the life of Donald Trump. He is also prominent in the Fox News network, which he often watches for up to 6 hours a day. In 350 pages of revelations and some of Trump's more notable lies, the author points out that Trump's love affair with Fox News has no historical precedent. The TV Network "effectively" produces the president's intelligence briefing, and he goes to the Fox News hosts for advice. Because Donald Trump is hampered by his narcissistic self-absorption, he needs daily affirmations of his fabulous intelligence and his wonderful leadership. Fox News provides it for him. The author points out that Trump's TV-watching time is coded in his internal schedules as "Executive Time." He adds that some of Trump's most damaging decisions can, arguably, be traced to his TV habits, watching Fox News. He observes, "Trump's hatred for Ukraine seems to have originated with Sean Hannity's show telling him that Clinton had colluded with that country in 2016." The end result of that was his impeachment. There are numerous examples of the excessive influence that Fox News has over Donald Trump, but one that reals much is Stelter's observation that "Trump failed to muster a forceful federal investigation government response to Covid-19 because he was too preoccupied with the impeachment trial that he and Hannity both called a "hoax." And then, they used the same word when Democrats raised alarms about the virus! Stelter defines "hoax" as a potent word, because it's an angry and a mean one (as defined by linguist John McWhorter). McWhorter observed to the author, "It's the quintessence of Trumpian self-expression." Before he was elected, Trump also used the term, "hoax" to dismiss global warming. This is an alarming statement, considering that at this time, the West Coast of America is suffering from raging fires from the Canadian Border to the Mexican Border... fires in all three states, heating up the atmosphere, burning down forests and homes alike, and costing Americans their lives and their livelihoods, and their homes. One further observation that McWhorter said was that the term "Hoax" carries something that the term "fake" does not -- it carries an air of Accusation - of Transgression. The president, in making his incessantly dishonest comments on live TV, is "deliberately hoodwinking the public, being like Barnum (in Barnum & Bailey's Circuses). Trump likes to taunt the news media by calling the news "Fake News". McWhorter suggested that "fake" was more flexible--the news could be called fake because of many factors (blinkered ideology, mission creep, multiple perspectives) - but a "Hoax" does away with all of those variables and just calls people out as Malevolent." "A "logical leap" for a pathological president who indulges illogical conspiracy theories and who engages in a War on Truth." And the real horror of all this? Trump didn't come to grips with the reality of the Covid-19 pandemic until he saw it on TV! He said, "I've been watching them bring in trailer trucks--freezer trucks, they're freezer trucks, because they can't handle the bodies, there are so many of them." (stated on March 29th this year). And he said this was happening in Queens, New York, his community. There's much more to be revealed in this amazing book. In seven chapters plus an Epilogue, along with Notes and acknowledgements, the story of Donald Trump's "Hoax" is well documented, and a gripping read. The author begins the story with two quotes: "It will go away, Just stay calm. It will go away" - Donald Trump, March 10, 2020. And finally, "In serious situations, truth matters." - Sean Hannity, March 11, 2020.

Remember the days of "fair and balanced. I think the evolution of Fox is directly linked to our division. Very dangerous for the health of our democracy and our once American ideals. All for profit and ratings. Hearing some of their vociferous mostly fabricating pundits I think how far some of them will go. Will our First Amendment rights still stand or will we fall with disinformation and propaganda. It's interesting that after the news that Russia may be giving money to the Taliban to kill our soldiers, a Russian spokesman was on TV saying "It's a hoax, it's fake news." And, I thought that's the same thing we've been hearing for over three years. . To become so extreme for money and ratings where your believing loyalists would go and harm other Americans or to be irresponsible about a virus that has killed over 170,000 Americans so far, how low can one go for those ratings?

I half dreaded reading the book but sincerely believe as many readers as possible should at minimum read it entirely without the common reactions. I have read a large number of books and found all but one useful. Useful in listening to what authors offered. Each book seemed well written and serious with good intent in offering points. Time permitting I would gladly read other writings by Brian Stelter. It is noting like "Throw them all out but I am left with similar impressions. I do not find fault with the "base" nor do I have a deep understanding. They have their own values which include the worst to the best. My feeling is Brian Stelter truly reports and the result is my believing my country has a problem with true values, morality and logic. The basis of our economy is sick. The book illustrates multiple terrible choices. The major book message is to be less tribal.

Stelter's book is nothing but a poorly written hit job that lacks facts and evidence. But he knows he's mostly writing to his brainwashed viewers who still believe CNN's Russia hoax. It was (almost) funny to speed read through my friend's copy. Stelter is the guy who went on air talking about how he cries himself to sleep so what kind of "journalism" can you expect from that? He claims there's been a Fox/Trump merger when all reality shows the CNN/DNC merger has been so grotesque and corrupted since before Hillary ran in 2016. Stelter suffers from "little man syndrome", especially in regards to his out of control jealousy of Tucker Carlson. It's not a book, it's Little Brian's diatribe of psychological projection

Excellent and well written book regarding the "marriage" between Fox News and Trump, especially the relationship with Sean Hannity. Wondering who governs America? It isn't Trump. He is totally relying on Fox "talent" in decision making. Lou Dobbs, Laura Ingraham, Tucker Carlson, Jeanine Pirro, Steve Doocey, Brian Kilmeade, and of course, Hannity. It's Fox and their propaganda machine that sets policy for this nation. Trump is their cut out and they know how to exactly get their point across to him via the t.v.. We need no longer wonder how the nation got to this point. Trump and Fox feed off each other. Stelter uncovers the truth of this confluence which is pretty frightening.

We are experiencing a reality gap. Donald Trump lies incessantly without challenge from what was once the GOP and an alternate reality is effectuated and perpetuated by his followers and sycophants. What are the nuts and bolts of this phenomenon? HOAX provides some answers and is a good read. That’s a win-win for the reader.

Relying on interviews and insights, Brian Stelter has exposed the bizarre relationship and interaction between Donald Trump, president of the United States, and a cadre of infotainers and sycophants at Fox News. This symbiotic liaison sees the President regurgitating what his Fox News handlers have fed him on their broadcasts while those same handlers spread the President's lies, distortions, and a plethora of misinformation throughout the day. Stelter also includes the despair felt by many present and former Fox employees over the loss of integrity and reliability, something Fox has willingly sacrificed for unlimited access to Donald Trump. HOAX is so well written, it's hard to put down.

You have said what journalists have wanted to say about the crimes of Fox Hate News and it's disservice to our democracy. I am encouraged that the crew is upset and embarrassed by the greed and dishonesty of the owners and and their mean-spirited stars. It's the poison projecting a personality disorder on every addicted viewer of Fox Hate News and causing the coarse discourse and toxic name-calling that has denigrated our nation NEEDLESSLY. I never thought a journalism degree would make you an enemy of the people. THANK YOU AGAIIN!

Well written and based on facts. If you are a Fox supporter or a Trump supporter you wont like the book. If you are in a state of desperation with the situation in our racist Country, this will continue to make you feel uneasy. I cant say I enjoyed reading about Fox news but it explains how their commentaries and shows work. Very disturbing. I wish I could say it will change anything but I doubt it. We are doomed.

I wish every Fox viewer would read this book. I have watched the network since 2001 and in the last four years have been more and more disturbed by the way the network has taken a turn for the worse. This book puts into words my concerns with the facts to back them up. I wish every Fox viewer would read this book!

Nothing in this book surprised me but it was an interesting compilation of how running a network for profit vs. validity of truth has changed the landscape of reporting.

It has been reported by many that Donald Trump has not been a cooperative consumer of his Presidential Daily Briefing, but here we learn that it has been largely replaced by Fox & Friends. Stelter describes how Trump and Fox News exist in a constant feedback loop that support the loss and misinformation that characterize the current administration.

As a Democrat(ic) occasional Fox News watcher, I was looking forward to reading this expose. However, I found the jumbled narrative disconcerting as it flitted from one subject to another; anecdotal material sometimes had no point. Also, the author had a tendency to presume the reader had a certain knowledge base, which would enable him/her to understand the subject or personality being discussed. Overall, I did not find this to be an informative or interesting read. And for those who care about such things, the book's primary narrative ended at around 65%; the remaining 35% of the book was footnotes.

I have read at least 50% of the reviews on this book and I find that a lot of these "reviews" are actually mini essays on how they feel about President Trump. I watch FOX News as well as CNN; on the rare occasion I also flip to MSNBC. I don't have a favorite cable news site because I want to hear all points of view before I make a stand on an issue. That being said, I really enjoyed all the early background in the book about FOX News' beginnings, Roger Ailes, and Sean Hannity. The author did an excellent job of telling the story of FOX's rise from 1996 to today. The book is well paced, well researched, and it surprised me how much I actually enjoyed reading it. I found myself highlighting and researching on the Internet new material I didn't know and material regarding Bill O'Reilly's fall from grace. All in all the book entertained me, enlightened me, and expanded my knowledge; all things a good non-fiction should do. If you are a die hard FOX fan who believes only FOX can tell the truth, you will not enjoy it. If you are a die hard anti-FOX fan, you won't change your mind, so don't waste your money. This book is for readers who like to question the establishment, who want to challenge their own "truths", and for readers who like to stimulate their minds. I highly recommend it to these people. :0)

It’s an interesting page turner. If you want to know the real Sean Hannity and other fox showman (can’t call them newsmen) it’s a must read. Who knew if you voted for Trump you were really voting for Fox News! I applaud the author for getting out the facts and truths. The world is so overloaded with lies these days and hearing real true info was refreshing!

By about page 180, on the Kindle, I could not stomach it any more. Since I never watch Fox I had no idea who the many persons mentioned in the book are. What is clear, though, is that their driving force is money. A force aided and abetted by our president.

The book “Hoax: Donald Trump, Fox News, and the Dangerous Distortion of Truth” by Brian Stelter was an interesting read filled with many facts and references about Fox news, who owned it, how they generated strong earnings and how it changed over time and its extremely close relationship with Trump. As told in the book, slowly over time news reporting was supplanted with more profitable opinion journalism. The book provides information on the close ties of Hannity and Trump and provides examples of how the synergy allows both to achieve gains from the relationship. In one section the book states: “Hannity fed misinformation to Trump and Trump fed it right back to Hannity.” The author states: “This story is about a rot at the core of our politics. It’s about an ongoing attack on the very idea of a free and fair press. It’s about the difference between news and propaganda. It’s about the difference between state media and the fourth estate. So excuse me if I swear a little—but I am alarmed, and you should be too.” And “In the course of reporting this book I spoke with more than 140 staffers at Fox, plus 180 former staffers and others with direct ties to the network. Their frustration was palpable. Staffers described a TV network that had gone off the rails. Some even said the place that they worked, that they cashed paychecks from, had become dangerous to democracy.” He goes on to claim: “See, anyone who views Fox News as a mere cable channel, no different than AMC or TBS, is missing what it really is. Fox is an addictive substance. For its biggest fans, Fox is an identity. Almost a way of life. Hardcore viewers rarely change the channel or seek out a balanced media diet.” And that: “A 2019 PRRI survey found significant differences between “Fox News Republicans” and other Republicans who said Fox was not their primary news source.” He goes through the entire Roger Ailes history and discusses the similarities between Ailes and Trump. He states: “The ascendance of a black president radicalized the network and ushered in an era with fewer left-right debates and more lectures. Hannity the star began to transform Hannity the show into what it is today—a nightly anti–Democratic Party attack ad for people who distrusted the nightly news. He writes about the Murdochs and forcing out O’Reilly. Speaking of Trump, the author, Stelter: states: “He suggested with disturbing regularity that everything could be a hoax. It was straight out of George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four …” Not bashful about raising starling inside speculation the author states: “For some journalists, including at Fox, the president’s mental health was a running line of speculation. Narcissistic personality disorder was the most comforting explanation because the other possibilities were far more frightening. Words like “delusional” and “dementia” were invoked in private.” Talking about the Fox legal advisor, the book says: “Napolitano tried in vain, all week long, to point out that the facts in Mueller’s report contained evidence of obstruction and campaign finance law violations and other outrages. In an op-ed for Fox’s website, Napolitano wrote that “Mueller laid out at least a half-dozen crimes of obstruction committed by Trump” The book offers this on gun control: “Georgetown University sociolinguist Jennifer Sclafani told me. “Democrats and Republicans use frames to talk about political issues in different ways, and the choice of words activates a particular understanding or frame of the issue. For example, whether we talk about ‘gun control’ or ‘Second Amendment rights,’ we are talking about the same political issue. But our choice of terms tells the audience where we stand on the issue.”” Stelter speculates that if Trump loses the 2020 election, he will have a place as a commentator on Fox news or may even try to start his own news channel. The book is worth the price, certainly before November 3, 2020 and beyond for scholars and historians interested in how Fox news influenced a President of the US.

I’m biased. Don’t like Faux News, don’t like Trump. Put them together in one book, along with other great info, and you have a perfect combination to sink into.

This is a must-read book for anyone who wants to delve into the bonds between Donald Trump and Fox News. It is an eye-opening revelation. I couldn't put it down. My son-in-law asked to borrow it after I finished. I have gladly loaned it to him.

Compared to some of the books in this vein that are out now, this is very readable. And while the story may not be entirely new, it shows you the depth of the connection, and explains more of how we go to be where we are.

dont waste your money on this book

Reading Hoax made me sick at my stomach, not because I doubted the author’s truthfulness, but because I believed him! Like many others, I’ve been growing steadily more cynical about our political system, but I was still hopeful that a change of administration would bring into the Washington spotlight politicians who have real integrity and a sure sense of right and wrong. I still think that's possible, but after reading Hoax, I now believe any change may be too little, too late. I am fearful that America is broken and can’t be fixed. The role of money and the media in every election from town council to president of the United States is overwhelming and absolutely corrupting. This book shows readers a TV network entirely devoted to a personality cult, fed by huge profits, and totally without conscience. It also paints a terrifying picture of a large portion of the electorate who believe that running the government is like a reality show and everything is made for TV so nothing counts unless it’s entertaining. It’s like rooting for your team in a championship game. It’s us against them and winning is everything. Knowledge, experience, integrity, and truthfulness are not part of this Fox News feedback loop and are missing on both sides of the microphone. No one cares, not the owners who count the billions in profits, not the talking heads whose astronomical salaries make them instant multimillionaires, not a president who obsesses about his ratings while a pandemic rages, and certainly not the devoted audience who turn on Fox upon waking and never change the channel. They feed on the garbage spewed out and, like addicts seeking a high, they need more and more to get their fix. The book is chilling; it’s sickening, but it should be required reading for every citizen of this country. Like Germany in the 1930s, America is headed for a catastrophic day of reckoning and most of its people neither know nor care.

I can see the effects that right wing media, specifically Fox News, has had on my husband. We no longer speak about anything to do with Trump, Fox News, Republicans, the economy, the virus. That leaves a lot of silence. Hoax made me realize I am not a stubborn woman. I believe in facts, not spin. This book exceeds my expectations.

Stelter's account of how Rupert Murdoch's Fox "Entertainment" division, with it's money generating "star" Sean Hannity, have congealed to give us an endless daily Trump propaganda machine is spine chilling.

This book is hard to read, only because it is so true. All the things you suspected about Fox News are explained: How Fox News became the Fox Propaganda station, which ultimately became the Trump station. Fox tells him what to say, simply by suggesting it to him on TV and he repeats it. Ratings is the only thing that matters; thus the most outrageous things happen and are said. There is such a short time before election, and this book has just made clear that my biggest fears may come true. God help us.

Good explanation, but something Trump supporters will never read or believe. Someone needs to write a comic or picture book exposing the truth to them.

Set the record straight in a time when truth does not appear important.

Trumps a 12 yr old grade school bully. If he does not get his way..lip drops..pout comes out..acts like a child. And he's our president? A child.

If the Republican's about of the cult of personality happening. This book shows just how crazy and amazing he is POTUS. Great book!

Wow, what a great book. Read it during the election process. Very enlightening. A must read for all voters.

Good read, enjoy his Sunday Program, historically accurate

Brian Stelter is a great write in addition to an amazing journalist.

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Pretty exciting....and it makes a LOT of sense. You can't put the book down.

Great book. Highly recommend should be a must read for everyone in United States

Brings me hope that not everyone @ Faux News is not a RWNJ! Get it!

How Fox news is trying to help a Dictator wannabe. Fox news is anti american. Fox is an expert at brainwashing.

Good read. This virus is NOT A HOAX

Very good

Great tell all book, entertaining

No real facts just opinion to hate

Excellent book and very insightful! I hesitate with opinion books but this one has so many sources I felt it was much more fact than opinion.

This book offers an informative and frightening look into the power of Fox News.

The book’s prologue captures your attention. It is an easy read and gives information about President Trump’s and Fox News station relationships with sources.

If you were like me following the news for the past few years you would undoubtedly would have realized that Trump had a special relation with Fox News even as he called the rest of the media as fake. However, you would have not realized, just like me, how closely and how dangerous that relationship was. The leader of the free world was parroting the news anchors from Fox and making his policy decisions based on the biased opinions of these anchors; Not from the informed sources or experienced advisors or learned staff members. The author provides the narrative that is shocking at times. The detail he provides is chronological and goes into the opinions and reporting of the people at Fox News and others who are close to the action. To those who were criticizing the author that his sources were not reliable and not documented, I have this to say. It is just like Trump himself who would say something on the television for everyone to see and then deny saying it the next day; what came to be known to us as gaslighting. The tweets, the news/opinion casts were broadcasted to everyone. Those are incontrovertible evidence. What the author does is link these events together -- like Trump tweeting something just a few minutes after a "newscaster" or a "political pundit" saying that exact same thing on the cable news network. Hence the author is providing the details and backstories of what we came to see on the television and what we read in the "newspapers" and Twitter.

This book really drives home what most of its readers more or less understand - Fox News is the presidents propaganda bureau. He and Hannity talk every day, to plan out talking points and spin approaches, and they talk every day to review the success of that spin. Trump is an external manager of talent at Fox News, and anyone who wants to be on TV knows who’s ego they need to stroke. Given how many people want to be on TV there will always be a pool of talent that will play the propaganda game while Trump is in charge. It also drives home two points - it turns out this is what viewers want - propaganda and fear mongering and filter bubbles are profitable businesses. And the more extreme the better. So I don’t know where that leads, like an addiction maybe our society needs rock bottom to wake up to the harm this channel does. This book focuses on Fox News and its intimate relationship with Trump, so there are a number of other businesses like Breitbart in 2016 and now OANN that don’t get attention, but follow the same pattern - propaganda for profits sake. Very eye opening. I used to think we had a strong press, fourth pillar of a democracy, but didn’t understand how this channel negates that - for 20%-40% of the population there is no strong fact based press, just Fox News. So does that effectively mean we don’t have a strong press? Maybe a facist negates the press not by removing it entirely but just by convincing 20%-40% of the population to ignore it.

CNN-er Brian Stelter takes a gossipy but intelligent look at the fusion of the Trump presidency and the Fox network. In his chronicle of the Vulpine monolith during the Trump years he creates a tale of the arch-villain, Sean Hannity, vs. the Knight of the Shining Countenance, Shep Smith. Smith, who tried to actually present a news program at 3:00 p.m., was constantly hindered by the Unholy Trinity in prime time--Tucker, Hannity, and Ingraham. The author devotes quite a bit of his book to Smith's decision to leave. Featured, too, are the me-too tales of Megyn Kelly, et al. And you'll learn, if you didn't already know (I didn't) how The Founder, Roger Ailes, actually died. Told in a breezy style, with an occasional four-letter word (most of which are really unnecessary, as they come from the pen, err, wordprocessor, of the author) you'll see how the administration and the network formed a feedback loop that is absolutely breathtaking: the producers of The First Dude's favorite show, "Fox and Friends," would put up chyrons in hopes Trump would see them and act upon them. And who suggested the chyrons? Why the White House staff. There are extensive notes, but most of the people Stelter spoke to remained anonymouse, and one can hardly blame them. Recommended Mind-boggling.

I knew that the Republicans in general, and Trump in particular, was in bed with Fox News (sic). However, I had no idea the amount of kinky things that were going on in that bed. To me, when they start shaving the squirrels and getting out the mayonnaise, it's time to leave.

Stelter’s book is a scathing and revealing look inside the world of Fox News. Having followed Fox for years, even before his joining CNN, Stelter examines the history and evolution of “Trump TV,” including the smoldering conflicts among on-air personalities, executive ideologues, and the rest of the news and entertainment world. Stelter found that Hannity, Carlson, Ingraham and the “Fox & Friends” morning team are free to roam in the no-man’s land between fact and opinion, often playing fast and loose with truth. Fox prime-time hosts personally advise Trump on policy, and Trump mentions them often at his rallies. This would be shocking at other news organizations. Conservatives who approve of Trump dislike Stelter, if only because he works for CNN, but Hoax: Donald Trump, Fox News, and the Dangerous Distortion of Truth is well sourced. Trump critics will find this narrative compelling and reliable. Stelter reveals, for example, that there is “resistance within Fox,” and he documents high profile departures, resignations, and complaints about bias and inaccuracy. In some situations, like the immigrant crisis and the pandemic, the Fox influence is powerful. Stelter carefully examines Trump’s difficulty with speaking truthfully, and his frequent insistence that the truth is a “hoax,” a word that “was uttered more than nine hundred times on Fox News in the first six months of 2020.” That constant repetition, Stelter says, obscures the truth. Regardless of the reader’s attitudes, this book is a valuable contribution to one of the most fascinating political dramas of our era.

Brian Stelter took the mask off of FOX News. He breaks through on why FOX News is not really a News Organization its a show, a news show of opinions and propaganda. He takes you from the beginning with Roger Ailes and why Rupert Murdoch backed him into building the right wing propaganda machine as a money making enterprise. Roger Ailes had dreamed of a conservative News Outlet when Richard Nixon reqigned in disgrace, because he believed if he had a News Organization behind him then he would of not of resigned. So when the stars aligned for Murdoch and Ailes they were in business when Trump started to appear on the horizon. Trump may not read but he's like any five year old in front of a TV he's a sponge and just takes it all in, so when “Fox and Friends” was formed they started pushing all the President Obama venomous attack lines Trump soak it up. He started calling in and stated testing out his “birtherism” theories that would launch his political start for his presidency, along with the “white male grievance”. Brian Stelter shows how Fox found that is was money making proposition to peddle the attacks and defenses that their conservative audience wanted to hear. Beginning with Sean Hannity, who is a college dropout who Ailes hired from talk radio and turned into a mega-star (who has several houses, makes millions and everal divorces, and by the way can't stand Trump)is so influential with President Trump that White House aides called him the chief of staff. An he also goes on to explain that poor Sean is at Trump's beck and call at all hours, that now he is feeling warn out from it all. He also does the same to Lou Dobbs who he uses as an Economic Advisor. Fox is only concerned with the same thing: popularity, ratings, money and power. Brian Stelter shows that this was a dangerous relationship before the covid pandemic hit in America. They allowed President Trump to spread misinformation and outright lies about the pandemic--it's cause, spread and his handling of it--the more FOX championed his actions and crazy talk. It didn't matter that the evening hosts' pro-Trump commentaries were invariably false. What mattered was telling the Trump (and Fox) "base" what they wanted to hear and believed, its all just propaganda. President Trump and the Fox evening hosts and those on "Fox and Friends" have been complicit in a national tragedy that will see over 211,000 Americans killed by covid-19 by Election Day. Fox's determination to keep Americans ignorant of the danger of the virus, of Trump's gross negligence throughout the crisis, and of what people should be doing to stay safe, makes them also culpable for the deaths of thousands of people who would be alive today if they were wearing masks and social distancing. Instead of relying on experts, PresidentTrump, Hannity and Laura Ingraham played politics and pushed bogus cures like Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) with devastating results. Laura Ingraham even brought the doctors that thought HCQ was a cure into the White House to meet the President. FOX says one thing and did something else with COVID, they downplayed yes but they were and are still all at home in their own studios or a Truck that comes to their house. They have sanitized and scrubbed down the Network offices. But FOX News doesn't know where they are going they are slowly but surely driving out the real journalists at the network, like Shep Smith, and now sidelining people like Brett Baier and Chris Wallace, and promoting the talking opinion people, like Tucker, Hannity, Waters, Gutfield, and Ingraham. They also don't know where they will go if President Trump looses the election. Will they continue to use the personalities or actually hire and use real news anchors. Will they stop talking out of both sides of their mouths about what is happening in America and to the American People, who knows? Its up to Lachlan Murdoch now but he won't make any major as long as Rupert (his dad is breathing) so we will see, but one thing FOX is not NEWS.

HOAX is an excellent book that: examines the culture and business of Fox News; explores why misinformation is critical to Fox’s success; and shows how Donald Trump, who has a symbiotic relationship with the network, has used Fox News to recast the Republican Party. In writing HOAX, Brian Stelter, the chief media correspondent for CNN, paints a grim picture of Fox’s toxic culture, where stars, such as Bill O’Reilly, and Roger Ailes, its top news executive, repeatedly engaged in sexual harassment, which Fox suppressed through million dollar settlements and non-disclosure agreements. The look Ailes wanted for women correspondents on his news shows, BTW, was “Southern Beauty Queen” and “tits up, hair back.” He also writes about the marginalization of legitimate fact-based Fox journalists, such as Shepard Smith and Chris Wallace, and the now uncontested dominance of Carlson, Hannity, and Ingraham. In their case, Roger Ailes wanted these stars to stoke the Fox base with stories about immigrants committing crimes, the smug superiority of elites, political correctness on college campuses, and so on. But after he was fired, Suzanne Scott, Ailes replacement, lacked both the strength and the desire to keep her stars from basing their programming on unvetted stories that emerged from right-wing blogs. To Scott, high TV ratings, which are driven by the reckless vitriol of these stars, is what matters. And now I pass the microphone to Stelter. o “The truth was the president was not a huge ratings magnet anymore. Almost no one flipped from CNN or MSNBC to see him speak on Fox. Trump had a base, the base was hooked on Fox, and the base wasn’t growing.” (Page 5) o “Fox is an addictive substance. For its biggest fans, Fox is an identity. Almost a way of life. Hardcore viewers rarely change the channel or seek out a balanced media diet. They compare the network to a church…” (Page 18) o “Hannity the star began to transform Hannity the show into what it is today—a nightly anti-Democratic Party attack ad for people who distrusted the nightly news.” (Page 34) o “Trump took his cues from what he heard from Hannity’s show. And like Trump, Hannity had no one to check him any more—no one to stop him from following his own worst instincts. ‘Ailes wanted us to step right up to the line, but not cross it,’ one of Hannity’s sparring partners said. Without Ailes around, Hannity was free to indulge Trumps looniest lies about voter fraud and about Hillary Clinton’s health.” (Page 74) o “This was the first of hundreds of times that POTUS stole from Fox & Friends… and did the producers of F&F reckon with their newfound power? Did they triple-check their facts to make sure the president was fully informed? No. They continued to rip stories off fringe right-wing blogs and promote conspiracy theories and play into the president’s worst partisan impulses.” (Page 110) o “…Seth Rich, a DNC staffer who was murdered in DC on July 10, 2016. Police concluded that he was the victim of a botched armed robbery, but the Russians seized on Rich’s death to cover their hacking tracks; A Russian intelligence agency planted a conspiracy theory that Rich was a whistleblower who’d pilfered the DNC emails… And in one of the most shameful episodes in Fox News history, the theory traveled from the Russian disinformation universe to Fox & Friends.” (Pages 150-51) o “In Trump’s mind, watching Fox was a key part of running the country. He rarely interacted with average voters, so Friends was the connection to his base.” (Page 158) o “Once unbound from the shackles of truth, Fox’s power came from what it decided to cover—its chosen narratives—and what it decided to ignore. Trump’s immature, erratic, and immoral behavior? His sucking up to Putin? His mingling of presidential business and personal profit? Fox talk shows played dumb and targeted the ‘deep state’ instead.” (Page 206) o “Trump’s briefings emerged as a rally replacement for his ego. He watched Fox & Friends in the morning; hosted his own TV show in the briefing room in the afternoon; then watched the reviews of his show at night. This was never healthy, and it was especially hurtful amid a public health emergency.” (Page 307) o “…so many Fox wingmen fed his worst impulses and helped him deceive the people who voted for him. They encouraged him to perform like a cable news bomb-thrower; to pick fights instead of finding common ground. To govern for TV ratings instead of tangible results. To supply endless content for talk shows. And, in 2020, to stoke denialism about the pandemic.” (Page 315) Highly recommended.

Hoax goes into detail about the Trump echo chamber that is Fox News. Sad at times, as the few journalists with integrity are gradually overwhelmed by the so-called "opinion" hosts like Hannity and Carlson. For the sake of ratings and cash, Fox subsumed any journalistic standards to become the propaganda arm of the Trump era. There is a positive feedback loop between Trump and Fox that is self-reinforcing and threatens to blow out the speakers, so to speak, and destroy the country. I take points off for unnecessary crude language and talking down to the reader (example "eunuch - Google it"). Also somewhat disorganized, with chapters generally moving forward in time, while sometimes jumping from the past the the near-present without much rhyme or reason. Nevertheless, an important book of contemporary history, that captures the shame of this era.

Easy to read and follow the flow of events.

This book opens a window into the marriage of the darker sides of media and politics. I asked myself what analogous event I had in my life that I could compare the reading of this book to? The only thing that came to mind was experiencing the Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989. As I descended the stairs at my place of work, each step was moving inches in every direction as I attempted to plant my foot on it. Once I got out of the building, I watched as 6x8 foot pains of glass popped from the four story buildings across the street and came crashing down. When I looked down the street, the pavement was rising and falling in two to three foot waves moving to the south. As my unquestioning trust in the stability of the ground beneath my feet will now forever be in question with an element of fear, so will be my trust or faith in the media and politicians. Whether misplaced trust or naivety, this book will replace it with a new reality, awareness and, hopefully, scrutiny.

This outstanding book provides an in depth analysis of the relationship between Trump and the Fox opinion makers who have supported and influenced him. It gives context for what I observed but struggled to understand -- how distortion of fact, misinformation and outright lies could influence so many people. It is a page turner-- hard to put down as it is so well written and researched. While I witnessed most of the public interactions it describes -- the book provides more of the context and a better understanding of the key players in Trump's world. It gave me a better appreciation for the distinction between the Fox News division, whose reporters may at least be trying to discern fact from fiction, and the opinion commentators who don't even try. The sad truth is that the most egregious have divided the country and done nothing to help solve our fundamental problems only made them worse.

I was eager to read this book because it was supposed to be a big exposé of the relationship between Trump and Fox News but It mostly chronicled the relationship between Trump and Sean Hannity, with not a lot of input with most of Fox. There is, however, quite a bit of discussion about the author's relationship with the characters,

Someday after the Trump dust settles this book will be insight into how Americans went so far off the rails in electing and listening to so much nonsense for so long. His insight into the feedback loop driven by money and power while steered by the proudly ignorant is important to understand. If we manage to save democracy this November books like this may be keys to saving our country in the future. Well written and very interesting.

Brian Stetler's book is about the partnershp betwen Fox News and Donald Trump who relies on the staffers for guidance in govement affairs. Fox & Friends a early morning show that Trump turns on to listen in liu o daily briefings. The hosts of this network spreads his lies and untruths and the distortion of truth. This network has a hatred of the Democratic party. Sean Hannity fans he flames, this network has a cult following that believes s every word that is broadcast if there is a State supported network this one is it because of Trump. Paul Ryan is on the board of directors. For those who seek the truth this book is the one. Paul Ryan is on the board of directors. For those who seek the truth this book is the one.

CNN Propaganda

The book was very interesting and informative, providing a newsman's insider perspective on Donald Trump vs the Fox propaganda machine. I had no idea of the level of internal squabbles and changes within Fox that were the result of the network's full support of Trump's irrational, unethical and dishonest thoughts and behavior! As a political independent, I believe that the book is a worthwhile read for both members of the GOP and the DNC, if they are willing to THINK instead of simply follow their political party's rule book!

A harrowing true story of political and media. The honesty and well referenced descriptions about a hideous relationship between the president and the Fox “family” is a fascinating true story. Kudos to Brian Stelter for his intelligent and brave uncovering of a most timely and corrupt relationship between two major criminal positions of power that have shaped our current state of affairs.

Brotherhood with Trump, Hypocrisy, lies, greed over decency and ethics, lack of morals, and back stabbing competition. Fading news team over personalities. Good writing. Don't watch Fox channel so I skimmed over most of the personality names. Personalities are millionaires and broadcast their common man screeds from private studios in their mansions. What aboutism is rampant to hide not reporting the truth. TV stations should have broadcast rights revoked if they endanger the public with falsehoods ( covid pandemic). Thanks for the truth. Footnotes with links are included. Trump TV coming soon to compete with Fox.

After page 179, the pages are not in order. Printing mistake. So don’t buy the new paperback unless you don’t mind skipping around looking for the subsequent page. Good reading, but I received a defective product and I’m not sure how to return it?

Stelter, a CNN anchor, discusses the Fox, trump, Fox news cycle from its beginning through the spring of 2020. As you read it you'll learn how & why trump tweets some of the ideas he expresses. The people who need to read this book are those who are Fox devotees like trump. Those who may choose to read it will more likely be those who already believe Fox is propaganda tv. The network is largely responsible for the great divide in our country. Nothing really surprised me in the book though I did learn some things I hadn't known. There could be some real shocks in the book for many.

Stelter exposes the symbiotic (parasitical is probably a better word) relationship between Fox News and Trump and the damage it has done and is doing to our country. The specifics are all there and in fact the sheer number of them makes the book a bit repetitive at times. The main problem is that those who need to read this book won't or, if they do, will say it is all lies.

Difficult to finish because my mind and soul felt contaminated.

Wow---this was a page turner for me! A very interesting and informative book about what goes on behind the scenes at Fox news ---especially in collaboration with the Trump presidency. Well written--- and I highly recommend it! Thank you to the author for this very revealing book!

Once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down, and read it in a matter of days. Lots of scary truths in it, that expose the ongoing lies still being spread and perpetuated by Fox "News", all in the unholy search for good ratings (and advertising dollars). Even though outlets like Fox continue to put our democracy at risk, they don't care... something we should ALL be concerned about!

So interesting, so disheartening. I don't watch Fox, so didn't fully realize the symbiotic relationship going on between them and the Trump gang. Scary stuff. Every so often I think I should try to watch "the other side of the story", but have bad luck.... Every time I tune in, people are shouting and saying truly troublesome things. The whole deal is amazing to me. Before the"tea party" days I'd have sworn this could never happen here. Ugh. Good read....history.

Good, quick read. Informative and well-written. Some things I knew, other things I had a hunch about, some information was absolutely new to me. Hannity really comes across as a douche, which I pretty much had gathered. Worth the purchase.

Hard to stay interested. Would like to return

This is an important book filled with eye opening revelations about the death of truth in America under a president who feels unbounded by the traditional norms of honesty and integrity. And no, I am not naïve enough to think presidents haven't lied before, but this book reveals that it is an entirely different phenomenon now, where the lies are continuous, big and small, and there is a major media outlet now that is fully willing to support the lies and even ignite them. We live in dangerous times.

An accurate and disturbing look at the legacy of Fox News, the Trump Administration, and the manipulation of their followers.

This book reinforced my opinion on Fox News. All the good guys, except Bret Baier, left for the very sound reason that they presented the news, not what Trump wanted them to say. In spring of 2022 it is still scary that Hannity and Carlson are still telling lies to the American people. May Fox just go away.

This book is so well written and flows seamlessly even with the new updates. It’s amazing to read about what goes on behind the scenes at fox news. It’s shocking to know that majority of the opinion hosts know the truth but they deliberately and premeditatedly lie and distort the truth to satisfy their audience. The damage that has been done by right wing media is unquantifiable!

This is the unique amont the current exposes because it is the most practical, sparing us from having to watch Hannity and Carlson stage manage our dull-witted President. Of course, it helps to verify that this is actually happening and, sure enough ,Brian Stelter is right! The real question is why do voters crave guidance from isolated tv "stars" overcompensated by a old man who has already damaged journalism in his native country (not the USA, you will notice).

We are outraged that Trump and the Republicans continue to insist that he won the election. GROW UP PEOPLE!! He lost fair and square!! All you are doing with this HOAX is telling our children that it is better to lie to get your way, then to tell the truth! How do you sleep at night....

Trump does get many of his ideas from the Fox network. In the book HOAX, we learn this but more importantly, we see how one network can influence our society and could cause major damage to the world, not just the United States. This is a problem we will have to face long after the Trumps are gone. Pay attention America.

Brian Stelter puts all the facts about Trump and his disgusting mishandling of the Covid19 pandemic into a compelling timeline that recounts not only what was said and done, but the depths to which the Fox primetime opinion hosts would sink to pander to Donald Trump and his sycophants while thousands of lives were lost unnecessarily. A must-read about the dangers of watching Fox - a "news" network based on lies, distortion and greed.

I am a loyal fan of Brian Stelter's show on CNN, so I expected nothing less than an honest and fascinating read. I was NOT disappointed! For anyone who is curious about what appears at present to be a state-run station, this is the book for you. Each chapter highlights a cohesive subject about FOX--history, employees, Ailes, Trump's almost daily calls, is the station opinion only?--and more. This is a great book!

I found the info in this book very interesting. Not everyone will find it credible. It depends on your view of what channels you watch on cable. CNN is my personal favorite but non are basic news channels they are opinion channels and lean right or left. But I did enjoy the back stage info in the book.

So awful and so true. A real insiders book absolutely worth reading. Makes you want to scream. Trump has truly ruined everything! Not sure America and our democracy will ever recover as long as Fox and Trump are still around.

So interesting an scary. The importance of this book for me is that it is revealing just how important the propaganda of Fox News has been in affecting our country and reveals the circle of the type of person that follows its lead like a revolving door.

I have enjoyed watching Brian Stelter on TV and social media over the years, which is what led me to buy this. And it is a good book, but for the most part, I do not think it broke any new ground. Brian does a good job of connecting the dots and the lines between Trump and Fox, and exposing the hypocrisy at Fox, but at the end of the day, I don’t think this is a groundbreaking piece of reporting.

I thought HOAX was very very long-winded and needed an editor. It filled me in on fascinating “scuttle-butt” about FOX . It provided incredible detail that substantiates, over and over again, our worst fears about FOX. I found it hard to put down, because I am familiar with the “cast of characters.” The author certainly provides an insider’s glimpse into their lives and traumas, and capitulation to Trump. The collapse of journalistic integrity is covered page after page. I wish the author had provided more of his thoughts on the political implications for our democracy, and perhaps some comparisons with what is going on with other cable news outlets like CNN and MSNBC, and PBS, as well as right-wing Talk Radio. And most important: what is the way forward out of this dangerous journalistic mess? What about re-instituting the Fairness Doctrine at the FCC? What about unbundling cable packages so we are not forced to support FOX if we want to watch cable TV? How can the licensing process be used to stop news outlets that abuse the airwaves with lies and crazy conspiracy theories? I wonder what the author might think about the current lawsuit directed at FOX by a voting machine company. Perhaps looking for "solutions" is not within the purview of this book, but it would be a lot more interesting if it were.

Sad to see that the FOX propaganda machine has been overrun by their mindless watchers.

This book is a must read for anyone who cares about our democracy. It’s super interesting and to be honest, shocking what Fox News has done to this nation. It’s very well written and I highly recommend it.

This book was researched well and tells the story of the evolution of Fox news to it's eventual support of Trump and beyond to it's burgeoning platform as 'state tv'. How it became all about the money and the more outlandish the conspiracy theory or wild the tale, the more they promoted it for ratings, rating, ratings. Good read.

Shelter is a superstar for simply following the facts and documenting the Trump cult that exists in this country, and the greedy, disgusting, and rapid culture that threatens American democracy. Thank you for describing in detail all the actions of the Trump sycophants. Now the “ former guy” , bye bye ....

I read this book when it first came out. Fascinating read. I was looking forward to the updated material e/ the release in paperback and saw Steltar in interviews saying that update would automatically download to e-books previously purchased. I still haven’t received the update and I have automatic updates turned on. Anyone here know if Amazon provides the updated material or not? Or how to manually download the update? I can’t find any way to do so.

It seems to me that the only way someone could dislike this book is by being a Trump supporter, but how many of them can actually read, honestly? The Hoax of this Fake President is well detailed by the author, and this book goes well alongside A Warning, Too Much And Not Enough, and Rage on my bookshelf.

The story behind Ailes, Murdoch and the development of Fox News grooming trump for the presidency.......the sad truth (if all information can be believed) is that none have any loyalty to the democracy of this country.

This book not only saws the issues of Trump and leadership failures. Most importantly it shows how a single wealthy family can control what Americans think. The fear of the press that Hitler preached is alive today in America.

He does an excellent job of exposing the inside workings of Fox, including how unhappy everyone on the staff is. And they are so tainted from working for Fox they have trouble finding jobs elsewhere. Fox lures (and keeps) people by paying huge salaries because the network brings in so much money.

I couldn't put this book down. It was eye opening and also affirming. I've always tried to look at both sides so why did it feel like I was living in a completely different information planet than my conservative friends? Why was there zero coin ground now? This book connects the dots.

Much of this has already been written, but many details in here flush out how Fox acted as a state propaganda channel. It will frighten you. It takes a village to raise a child, but only a few dozen evil men to corrupt this nation.

Shows how Fox and Trump have manipulated the public for years. Fox has multiplied Trump’s lies. His A Hole followers have lapped it up.

What can I say? It about DJtrump and his methods. Only served to make me sick about this pathetic fascist wanna be.Nothing good about the farce that is Fox tv also.

The book itself is very good but less than a year later there is an update with added chapters and words per chapter. I paid $15 for the August 2020 e-version and while I would love to read what is in the updated version, it is a rip to have to pay full price to get the added information.

Good insight into how Donald Trump fits into the Fox business model.

The author does a great job of leading you through the unfortunate power Fox News has over the public in promoting Trump as a sane leader when they themselves know he’s not.

It is a very readable book. It brings back unfortunate memories for me about Fox News' distasteful reporting problems. I you wish to read about Fox News domination of Trump and Trump's addiction to Fox's propaganda, then read the book. Draw your own conclusions.

Fast, balanced, entertaining and insightful journey through all sides of the Fox organization and its cast of participants. Stelter is thorough and thoughtful and fair.

Excellent! Informative behind the scenes look at an unreal, nightmarish government run by an insecure brat. An unbiased look at the, hoax of a commander in chief, who has made us a laughing stock the world over, instead of the place people once aspired to live.

While it seemed obvious at the time the shenanigans going on between FOX and the Trump administration, it was never clear to me how much each needed each other for the pursuit of profits and power. The damage this radicalization has created is hard to overstate. I have new respect for Brian and his ability to shed such a strong light on this problem, and perhaps it will help us all find a way to reject this cancer.

The book is extremely well written. I am disappointed in that it was communicated the update would be available to Kindle purchasers free of charge. To date, that has yet to happen. But, the book is terrific.

I’ve enjoyed Brian Stelter’s work for years now— dating back to when I saw him in the Page One documentary about The New York Times. Stelter is both passionate and professional in his latest offering. He gives great insight to the fascinating juggernaut that is Fox News Channel. A peak behind the curtain reveals a feedback loop between POTUS and FNC. It seems that POTUS and FNC need each other to survive.

Many have heard about the connection between Fox and Trump. How it influenced his administration and how he influenced Fox News is detailed here. Stunning and damning, this book was a riveting read.

If true, Fox is one sorry organizations. I enjoyed this book immensely. I have the audio book also. I am sure to keep this book handy for reference.

Not worth reading.

If you're a Fox News fan, you are not going to like this book. Do not waste your money. However, for those, like me, who generally understand where Fox News' business model -- is coming from -- but don't spend your time paying serious attention to it, then you're likely to learn some details of the operation you didn't know and that might even be a little disconcerting. In a sense, Stelter's book is a memoir because he makes it personal, bringing in his own experiences with Fox news and opinion people, the "talent," and management. It's a quick read and in part a little juicy. I also found it interesting to read along with "Authoritarian Nightmare" by John W. Dean and Bob Altemeyer, which details psychological profiles of Donald Trump's base, the target audience of Fox News. Whether consciously or intuitively, Fox New understands how to cater to the same psychological needs.

Is what Hannity says--in private, of course, because money. According to Stelter, Fox employees use words like "delusional" and "dementia" to describe Trump in private so we know they're not crazy, just venal and unpatriotic.

I did find the book to be informative but it felt like ground hog day (the movie)while I was reading it. All the information was the same no matter who said it. I found myself wishing it was over as I struggled to get through it.

Very factual book describing the feedback loop between Fox News and the Trump administration which supports nothing but lies and distortions. Should be read by all Americans to understand this threat to truth and the American way of life.

So sad to hear how complicit Fox news has been in creating our current political atmosphere and placing Democracy at peril. So sad that money, greed, and power overrule honesty, decency, humanity, and upholding the constitution.

Well-written, solid research, insightful. Scary that such deceitful activities actually happen behind the scenes, affecting the future of our nation, while the nation hopes for simple truth and honesty. Such blatant dishonesty is shocking! Thank you for capturing and presenting the Trump-Fox upheaval.

Stelter nailed it in his latest book. Full of names and behind the scenes details in the FOX world. He made compelling case for the attention we should all pay to Trump' s co-dependent relationship with the opinion movers at FOX.

Brian Stelter's "Hoax" is a must for any political junkie, especially those closely following the last four years. He gives a detailed history of Fox News and its relationship between President Trump and his administration. Extremely well written, Stelter unravels how Rupert Murdoch and his media empire became the ultimate puppet master in Trump's ascension to the presidency. Even politicos will discover things they never knew existed. In particular how Fox News / Murdoch really feel about Trump and how lies / distortion of the truth are their mantra, all the while having little respect for their audience...as long as the money keeps rolling in. Fox News is all about money (much like Murdoch's other media enterprises), truth be damned. He found the perfect vehicle in Trump to peddle his made-up news, half-truths, and manufactured outrage, in order to stoke anger in an under-informed populace. "Hoax" leaves you pondering two things: what will happen to Fox News once Murdoch dies; and what will become of Trump once he's no longer of use to Murdoch. He gives speculation on both events. "Hoax" is a good read for those interested in politics. Casual readers may find it too heavy-handed and detailed. Recommended.

Well written and explains the Fox News network. No wonder I don’t watch Fox.

I knew things were crazy with Trump and Fox, but this is flat out alarming folks. We must be careful about what we watch and not take anything at face value. A lot of the division in our country is because of this.

This is a very thorough and focused work. I did not expect to be as impressed with the research and writing as I was. I've subsequently loaned the book to three other people, who concur.

A well written and outrageous look at our state media. Sadly, I believe many American’s health due to the Coronavirus have been a result of the crap Fox News delivers on a daily basis. Bravo Brian!

Brian's writing style makes the book very readable. So studiously researched makes it a real page turner.

I had expected the information to be biased, and it definitely was. I believe the diagnosis, the history, and the family content to be true. The anger against this man was only mildly hidden.

A very detailed and convincing view into the Fox News station becoming Donald Trump‘s propaganda machines. Fox News needed Donald Trump as much as Donald Trump needed Fox News. Very well written

A scary look at the circle of conspiracy and cycle of feedback between fox and trump that fed upon itself and the contempt with which fox really held for trump in actuality.

I could never truly understand the actions of Fox until I read HOAX. Just follow the money and power. This author has done that and then some. Reading this book will give you insights into how horrible Fox news is for this country.

An insiders view of Trump’s one sided relationships at Fox. “Predicts” the strong possibility that a defeated Trump will start his own TV network.

Interesting book on the power of media to reinforce and harden opinions. And $s are the driver. Halberstam wrote the Powers that Be 30 years ago, the media landscape has really changed since and this book was a great look at a new player, Fox.

A must for all concerned by the current state of affairs now occurring in our country. Putin's puppet has his own network in Fox, working for and feeding trump what they want amplified. Wake up America!!!

This book was fabulous. At the end if the book, I came to the conclusion that Murdoch and Fox are making huge dollars from viewers who simply want to be lied to and conned.

Wife likes and reads these books.

Knee deep in the inworking of Fox News, but who really cares other than Trump

Excellent read.

This book has 30 to 40 pages of citations. He used direct quotes. It is very scary that people get their news from only one source, because that allows manipulation of the facts.