The Burglar Who Thought He Was Bogart : Book Review

"The Burglar Who Thought He Was Bogart" by Lawrence Block is an exciting and clever crime novel that will captivate readers from start to finish. The story revolves around Bernie Rhodenbarr, a charming gentleman burglar and bookstore owner who has a deep appreciation for classic films and a talent for solving mysteries. When a couple hires Bernie to steal a valuable collection of movies, he becomes entangled in a dangerous game that involves deception and murder.

Block's writing style is both sharp and engaging, perfectly capturing the essence of classic film noir and infusing it with his own unique flair. Bernie Rhodenbarr, the protagonist, is a lovable character with a dry sense of humor that adds a touch of levity to the suspenseful and twisty plot. His fascination with old movies, as well as his frequent references to iconic film characters like Humphrey Bogart, adds a whimsical and nostalgic element to the story.

The plot of the novel is intricately crafted, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. Block's skillful pacing ensures that the momentum never wavers, keeping readers on their toes throughout the entire book. The dialogue is snappy and engaging, with witty exchanges between Bernie and a diverse cast of characters he encounters on his journey.

What sets "The Burglar Who Thought He Was Bogart" apart is Block's seamless blending of multiple genres. The book combines elements of a thrilling crime caper, a compelling mystery, and a heartfelt homage to classic films, resulting in a truly unique and satisfying reading experience. Block's attention to detail and his vast knowledge of film history shine through in his vivid descriptions and clever references.

Overall, "The Burglar Who Thought He Was Bogart" is an absolute delight for fans of crime fiction and classic movies. Lawrence Block's sharp writing, intricate plot, and engaging characters make this novel a must-read for anyone seeking an entertaining and nostalgic adventure.

What are readers saying?

"The Burglar Who Thought He Was Bogart" by Lawrence Block has received a range of reviews from readers, reflecting their different opinions on the book. Some readers praised the book for its entertaining plot and well-developed characters, while others had criticisms about its slow pacing and lack of depth.

Many readers found the plot of the book to be engaging and enjoyable. They appreciated the clever twists and turns, as well as the unique premise of a burglar who idolizes the iconic actor, Humphrey Bogart. The heists and crimes presented in the story were seen as intriguing and kept readers hooked until the end.

The characters in the book were a highlight for some readers. They described the protagonist, Bernie Rhodenbarr, as likable and charming, with a quick wit and sense of humor that added to their enjoyment of the story. Bernie's interactions with other characters, particularly his friend Carolyn Kaiser, added depth to the story and made it more engaging for readers.

However, some readers felt that the book suffered from a slow pace and lacked excitement. They felt that the story took too long to get going and that the burglaries described in the book did not live up to their expectations in terms of thrill and suspense. These readers found that the pacing made the book drag at times, making it less engaging than they had hoped.

Another critique was the perceived lack of depth in the book. Some readers felt that the plot was predictable and lacked complexity. They desired more depth in the characters and their motivations, as well as a more thorough exploration of the setting. For these readers, the book fell short in delivering a thought-provoking or gripping narrative.

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