She told them stories about winged lions, a golden cathedral, and about angels and dragons perched on top of the buildings.

Originally published in Germany, Cornelia Funke's The Thief Lord brings excitement and adventure into the lives of young American readers. In this captivating tale, Funke introduces readers to Prosper and Bo, two brothers who run away to Venice after the death of their mother. They choose to go to Venice because their aunt will not adopt Prosper, and their mom loved the city. The boys set up camp in an old deserted movie theater with several other boys and group leader, Scipio, the thief lord. When the thief lord and his gang are recruited to steal a broken wooden wing that belongs on a merry-go-round, the thrills began! With suspenseful twists and turns, this story leaves readers mesmerized by the mischievous activities of the group until the very end!

Publisher's Weekly compares Funke to J.K. Rowling because of the fantasy elements included in The Thief Lord. Funkes attention to detail as she whisks readers away through the canals of Venice is brilliant.  She immerses readers into the tale by incorporating authentic twists such as language.

The lady smiled, Un Vero Angelo!

Funke's descriptions of the character's adventures make this novel a definite page-turner for older readers!

The children wandered deeper and deeper and deeper into the maze of alleys.  The houses seemed to be moving in on them watching them as if they knew who they were.