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.

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.

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

- The Good Thief by Hannah Tinti was nominated for the prestigious 2008 National Book Award in Fiction.
- The author, Hannah Tinti, co-founded the literary magazine One Story, which is known for its mission to support new and emerging writers.
- Tinti’s storytelling in The Good Thief is often praised for its vivid characters and blend of gothic and adventure elements reminiscent of classic 19th-century novels.

**Ren**  
A 12-year-old boy missing a left hand, Ren starts the story as an orphan at Saint Anthony's orphanage, known for stealing small items due to his amputation.

**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**  
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**  
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.

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Part 1 Part 1: Chapters 1-11

The Good Thief Part 1: Chapters 1-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 2 Part 2: Chapters 12-23

The Good Thief Part 2: Chapters 12-23 Summary & Analysis

Part 3 Part 3: Chapter 24-Epilogue

The Good Thief Part 3: Chapter 24-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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