City of Thieves: A Novel by David Benioff

City of Thieves is a thrilling, romantic and optimistic coming of age novel by award-winning author David Benioff. Written in 2008 and set during the harrowing 1941 siege of Leningrad, the novel follows the adventures of two unlikely heroes, Lev Beniov and Kolya Vasiliev. Readers will join Lev and Kolya on their journey, developing an understanding of the terror of the German siege and the courage of the citizens of Leningrad who stayed behind to try and save their city.

City of Thieves follows the story of Lev Beniov, an 18-year-old Jewish boy who has been arrested for looting and is subsequently sentenced to death. But a chance meeting with Kolya Vasiliev, a roguish, charismatic Red Army deserter and thief, leads Lev to a new mission: steal a dozen eggs from a ruthless Nazi commander to be served at a banquet in the General's honor. Though Lev's parents are appalled by the prospect, Lev knows it's his only chance at redemption and to save himself from the firing squad.

The pair set off on their mission, encountering a host of characters along the way. Lev, a dreamer and idealist, finds himself in increasingly compromising situations, challenged by criminals, black marketeers and ruthless soldiers. Kolya, a realist and survivor, is quick to identify opportunities and extract some measure of justice. Through these situations, they form a friendship and learn to trust each other with their secrets.

The writing style in City of Thieves is captivating, with many moments and scenes that will stay with the reader. Benioff paints a vivid picture of the Leningrad siege and the extremes to which individuals will go to survive. He also explores themes such as courage and resilience that are essential for survival despite catastrophic circumstances.

The novel's characters will captivate the reader; each has a unique voice and an individual story and humour. Lev and Kolya, as well as the various other characters they meet on their journey, demonstrate a range of qualities: kindness, honesty, courage and more.

City of Thieves is a gripping and captivating novel that will transport readers to a world of risk and survival. Benioff's exploration of the siege of Leningrad makes City of Thieves an impressive and thought-provoking read. The novel contains humour, stirring scenes, and situations that demonstrate a compelling understanding of humanity. City of Thieves will undoubtedly remain one of David Benioff's most beloved works.