Author: Cornelia Funke
Once upon a time in the country of Italy, to orphaned boys ran to the 'magical' city of Venice, where the winged lions and horses watch over and guard the city. Bo and Prosper's mother has always told them that magic and mystery have lurked in the little alleys and under the bridges, and when she dies the young boys run from there uptight aunt and uncle to the place of magic they have always been told about. Once they arrive they caught up under a group of thieves that are under the great and wonderful 'Theif Lord' who never is seen and never caught. The boys have a life of adventure and daring escapades which seems to be the adventure's biggest dream. But what has Prosper worrying is that is a life of a thief really what he wants for him and his younger brother? When a great Count notoriously know as the The Conte, offers the group a big job Prosper must really decide if he wants him and Bo to participate in the ever dangerous game of thievery, while a nosy detective under his despicable aunt is looking for them.
With twists and twirls this story took quite a few turns, but turns that were predictable, nonetheless. As a teenager reading this book for the first time, I felt it hard to really get connected with the younger story. At times it was slow and tedious, but then it would pick itself up and redeem itself. The Pros: It had great mystery, storyline, great humor, and use of foreign vocabulary that I great enjoyed. The Cons: It was a bit slow and I thought it could had more action, it was also below my age. However, it would have been perfect for someone my sister's age. Overall, it was a great read that had me laughing.
Rating: 7 out of 10
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