The Burglar Who Liked to Quote Kipling : Book Review

"The Burglar Who Liked to Quote Kipling" by Lawrence Block is an exciting mystery novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey with Bernie Rhodenbarr, a talented burglar who has an affinity for literature. Set in the bustling streets of New York City, Bernie's life takes an unexpected turn when he stumbles upon a valuable artifact during one of his heists. As he delves deeper into the mystery surrounding the artifact, Bernie must navigate the dangerous underworld and evade both law enforcement and criminals who are desperate to get their hands on the prized possession.

Lawrence Block's writing style is captivating and infused with wit and humor. Bernie Rhodenbarr is a charming and resourceful protagonist, making him a joy to follow throughout the story. Block masterfully combines elements of crime, suspense, and humor, ensuring that readers are constantly engaged and entertained.

One of the unique aspects of this book is Bernie's fascination with quoting Kipling's works, which adds depth and complexity to his character. Block's use of literary references showcases his prowess as a writer and elevates the narrative to a whole new level.

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A clever burglar with a literary twist

The plot of "The Burglar Who Liked to Quote Kipling" is meticulously crafted with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Block's attention to detail and ability to build suspense make for a fast-paced and exhilarating reading experience.

Overall, "The Burglar Who Liked to Quote Kipling" is a delightful and captivating mystery novel that seamlessly blends crime, humor, and literature. Lawrence Block's skillful storytelling and compelling characters make this book a must-read for fans of the genre. It is a thrilling adventure that will leave readers eagerly anticipating Bernie Rhodenbarr's next exploit.

What are readers saying?

The book "The Burglar Who Liked to Quote Kipling" by Lawrence Block has generated a range of opinions among readers. Some readers praise the book for its clever protagonist, Bernie Rhodenbarr, finding him to be well-developed and enjoying his witty banter and sarcastic remarks. The inclusion of Kipling quotes adds depth to Bernie's character, making him more unique and interesting.

Others specifically mention their appreciation for the intricately plotted mystery in the book. They find the twists and turns cleverly executed and enjoy trying to solve the mystery alongside Bernie. The pacing of the story is also mentioned positively, with readers noting that it keeps them engaged and entertained.

However, some readers feel that the book falls short of their expectations. They find the plot predictable and the mystery lacking suspense. These readers consider the story formulaic and believe it offers nothing new or exciting to the genre. Additionally, some readers find the Kipling quotes excessive and unnecessary, taking away from the main story.

Another common critique is the lack of development for the supporting cast. Readers feel that the secondary characters are underdeveloped, making it difficult for them to fully invest in their stories. They also note that the dialogue between characters often seems forced and unnatural.

Overall, opinions on Lawrence Block's "The Burglar Who Liked to Quote Kipling" are divided. While some readers enjoy the clever protagonist and intricately plotted mystery, others find the story predictable and lacking suspense. The excessive use of Kipling quotes and underdeveloped supporting characters are additional concerns for some readers.

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