The Camel's Back

In The Camel’s Back, F. Scott Fitzgerald delivers a lively Jazz Age tale filled with humor, romance, and social satire.

Perry Parkhurst, a well-to-do young lawyer in Tarleton, is desperate to win back his fiancée, Betty Medill, after a failed proposal. Determined to make a bold statement, he crashes a grand costume party dressed as a camel—only to find himself in an unexpected whirlwind of mistaken identity, wild antics, and unintended consequences.

As the night unfolds, Perry’s plan takes a hilarious turn, leading to an unforgettable mix of misunderstandings, revelry, and self-discovery. Will his outrageous stunt win Betty’s heart, or will it only cement his fate as the town’s laughingstock?

First published in 1920, The Camel’s Back is a classic example of Fitzgerald’s wit and sharp social commentary, capturing the extravagance and absurdity of the Roaring Twenties. Perfect for fans of lighthearted romance and the charm of Fitzgerald’s early short stories, this delightful tale showcases his signature blend of humor and heart.