From the duo behind the bestselling Wildwood Chronicles comes a new adventure that illuminates a thrilling, underground world of pickpockets.
As the son of a consul general, Charlie Fisher lives a sheltered, sometimes lonely life in the marvelous city of Marseille. His days often consist of nothing more exciting than lessons with his tutor and social events with his father. But all of that changes one seemingly ordinary Tuesday morning, when Charlie happens to witness something extraordinary: a gang of young pickpockets pulling off a robbery in the middle of a crowded, public square. Charlie is mesmerized, and from that fateful day he becomes entrenched in the world of masterful thieves known as the whiz mob. But when this seemingly harmless new pastime leads Charlie into danger, he must decide if this life is really worth the risks that come with it.
Colin Meloy writes in a voice sharp with wit and precision, creating a rich and vibrant world complemented by Carson Ellis’ art at every turn. Each member of the whiz mob is given a distinct voice and personality, making readers feel as if they are part of the crew themselves, learning the lingo and pickpocketing culture right alongside Charlie. This is a unique and uproarious reading experience, and one not to be missed.
This article was originally published in the November 2017 issue of BookPage. Download the entire issue for the Kindle or Nook.
