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City of Thieves

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008

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Book Brief

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David Benioff

City of Thieves

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

258

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Leningrad, Russia • 1940s

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

910L

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Super Short Summary

City of Thieves by David Benioff follows Lev Beniov, a young Russian Jew, and Kolya, a Cossack soldier, during the Siege of Leningrad in World War II, as they embark on a perilous quest to find a dozen eggs for an officer's daughter's wedding to secure their freedom. The novel explores friendship, survival, and the brutality of war. The novel includes depictions of violence, torture, and sexual exploitation.

Dark

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Challenging

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.4

171,882 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

City of Thieves by David Benioff is widely praised for its engaging storytelling and vivid depiction of war-torn Leningrad. Readers commend the blend of dark humor and poignant moments, as well as the authentic character development. Some criticisms include occasional predictability and simplistic language. Overall, it's a compelling, character-driven historical novel.

Who should read this

Who Should Read City of Thieves?

City of Thieves by David Benioff is suited for readers who enjoy historical fiction with dark humor, compelling characters, and adventure. Fans of All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will find its blend of wartime struggles and personal growth particularly captivating.

4.4

171,882 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

258

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Leningrad, Russia • 1940s

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

910L

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