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The Thief and the Dogs

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1961

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Book Brief

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Naguib Mahfouz

The Thief and the Dogs

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1961
Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cairo, Egypt • 1950s

Publication Year

1961

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Thief and the Dogs by Naguib Mahfouz follows Said Mahran, a recently released prisoner seeking revenge on those who betrayed him in Cairo. He encounters his ex-wife Nabawiyya and her new husband, Ilish, as well as his former mentor, Rauf Ilwan. Said's attempts at retribution lead to a series of escalating crimes and growing paranoia, culminating in a tragic confrontation with the police. Themes of betrayal, disillusionment, and existential angst are prevalent. Sensitive topics include violence and crime.

Dark

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

3.9

11,334 ratings

58%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Naguib Mahfouz's The Thief and the Dogs is praised for its psychological depth and innovative narrative that combines stream-of-consciousness with traditional storytelling. Critics appreciate its exploration of betrayal and existential crises, but some find the protagonist's internal monologues disjointed. Overall, a compelling but challenging read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Thief and the Dogs?

Readers who appreciate psychological depth and existential themes will enjoy The Thief and the Dogs by Naguib Mahfouz. Fans of Albert Camus' The Stranger and Fyodor Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment will find this novel compelling, as it explores alienation and the quest for meaning in a turbulent world.

3.9

11,334 ratings

58%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cairo, Egypt • 1950s

Publication Year

1961

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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