Golden Roth is looking forward to Separation Day, when children are released from their guidance chains and allowed to be their own people. But when the unthinkable happens, the city of Jewel reacts, and suddenly Goldie is a criminal for daring to think for herself. Can she, who has never been on her own, survive? The dystopian elements of this story are disturbing precisely because they are so easy to envision. In a world where children are so valued they are literally chained to their parents or one of the Blessed Guardians until they come of age. "Think of the children" has become "protect the children at all costs." And indeed, this appears to have had some effect, as the city of Jewel is now free of many of the perils that used to claim the lives of children in particular.Interestingly enough, all of the children have some kind of rebellion against the chains, most notably through fingerspeak. There's an amusing scene in the middle where Goldie is trying to use her fingerspeak with Toadspit and finds not all signs mean the same thing in different parts of the city. And perhaps even more interesting, a very key adult also thinks the whole system is bunk and is trying to change things.The museum was, to me, the most interesting character. It is indeed a bit of "living history" and has a wild side, and Goldie's introduction to it allows the rest of us to see more of this fascinating structure. I also liked the brizzlehound, whose sense of honor mixes with a love of fun.And I liked that a book which is, after all, about stealing makes the point that there is a criminal element to thievery which should not be applauded, but that the skills themselves can be used to steal back things oppressors would take away.There are a few loose ends, probably because this is setting up the trilogy. I wanted to know more about the voice Goldie hears, which seems to be some kind of magic she may have. I wanted a better look at the museum too, though that should be forthcoming. And I didn't care for what happened to the villains at the very end, though I suppose the sequel will deal with it. I rate this book Recommended. In Jewel, plague and war have been eliminated for the protection of the people. So have insects, dogs and anything that could possibly cause danger or harm. Children are chained to their parents, for their own protection of course.Goldie cannot stand her lack of freedom. In a moment she manages the impossible: escape. Her bravery and wits will be tested, because things are changing in Jewel.I loved the characters, I liked the world and I think the premise is incredibly thought provoking - what happens to a people who are protected from every type of harm and ill. What type of trust and power are given to those in the name of protection.
What do You think about Museum Of Thieves (2010)?
Very well written and lovely. :)The characters are likeable and the world is interesting.
—Hedwig
It was a very interesting book, and I recommend it to people!!
—Justin
A very cool secretly-magical-museum/library adventure.
—fifi
Interesting concept but I wasn't a huge fan.
—Kyeii
