79 pages • 2 hours read
The Good Thief: A Novel
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Book Brief
368
Novel • Fiction
New England • 19th century
2008
Adult
14-18 years
800L
Super Short Summary
The Good Thief by Hannah Tinti follows Ren, a one-handed orphan living in a Catholic orphanage, who is adopted by a man claiming to be his brother. Ren soon discovers that the man, Benjamin, is a con artist involved in grave robbing. Ren becomes entangled in Benjamin's schemes, leading to adventures and encounters with various characters in a 19th-century New England setting, exploring themes of loss, redemption, and identity. Includes violence.
Mysterious
Dark
Gritty
Suspenseful
Adventurous
Reviews & Readership
14,017 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Good Thief by Hannah Tinti captivates readers with its gripping narrative, inventive plot, and rich character development. Set against a vivid historical backdrop, the novel’s sense of adventure and mystery is well-received. However, some critics find the pacing uneven and argue that certain story elements strain credulity. Overall, it is lauded for its engaging storytelling and evocative atmosphere.
Who Should Read The Good Thief?
A reader who would enjoy The Good Thief by Hannah Tinti appreciates atmospheric historical fiction with a blend of adventure and coming-of-age themes. Fans of Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist and Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island will relish the novel's rich characters and gripping narrative.
14,017 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Benjamin Nab
Benjamin Nab
A cunning career criminal with straw-colored hair and a broad smile, Benjamin adopts Ren from the orphanage and involves him in his life of deception.
Tom
Tom
A former teacher and educated accomplice of Benjamin, Tom is a drunk with a penchant for quoting Shakespeare and feels guilt from a past tragedy.
Silas McGinty
Silas McGinty
Ren's uncle, who runs a mousetrap factory in North Umbrage, known for his yellow suit and thick accent, and employs only young women and a gang of henchmen.
368
Novel • Fiction
New England • 19th century
2008
Adult
14-18 years
800L
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