Parents' Guide to

The Thief

By Michael Berry, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 13+

Clever historical fantasy has crafty, delightful narrator.

Book Megan Whalen Turner Fantasy 2017
The Thief Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Community Reviews

See all

There aren't any parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.

What's the Story?

As THE THIEF begins, Eugenides is taken from his prison cell and embarks on a reluctant journey in search of an invaluable treasure known as Hamiathe's Gift. A stone dipped in the Waters of Immortality, the Gift conveys the right to rule the four kingdoms to whichever king or queen it is given. The Magus of Sounis wants Gen to retrieve it from an underwater temple, since he has boasted that he "can steal anything." If Gen can't, it's back to prison or an even harsher fate.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say Not yet rated
Kids say (6):

Cleverly constructed and unpredictable, this historical fantasy abounds with suspenseful set pieces, twisty double-crosses and a vivid set of main characters. The Thief starts slowly, but the measured pace allows for some delicious discussions between Gen and his captors. Author Megan Whalen Turn has created a highly detailed setting and peopled it with realistic and complicated characters. Eugenides the Thief is a delight from the beginning, and many readers will want to follow his continuing adventures in this book's sequels.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the unreliable main character in The Thief . Why do readers like stories about tricksters?

  • Why do people continue to study Greek mythology? What lessons can it teach modern-day readers?

  • Gen and the magus eventually develop mutual respect for each other. What kinds of actions help develop trust between people?

Book Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

See all recommended book lists

Related Topics

Want suggestions based on your streaming services? Get personalized recommendations

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate