82 pages • 2 hours read
David BenioffCity of Thieves
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
City of Thieves by David Benioff follows Lev Beniov, a young Russian Jew, and Kolya, a Cossack soldier, during the Siege of Leningrad in World War II, as they embark on a perilous quest to find a dozen eggs for an officer's daughter's wedding to secure their freedom. The novel explores friendship, survival, and the brutality of war. The novel includes depictions of violence, torture, and sexual exploitation.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
City of Thieves by David Benioff is widely praised for its engaging storytelling and vivid depiction of war-torn Leningrad. Readers commend the blend of dark humor and poignant moments, as well as the authentic character development. Some criticisms include occasional predictability and simplistic language. Overall, it's a compelling, character-driven historical novel.
Who Should Read City of Thieves?
City of Thieves by David Benioff is suited for readers who enjoy historical fiction with dark humor, compelling characters, and adventure. Fans of All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will find its blend of wartime struggles and personal growth particularly captivating.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsLexile Level
910LBook Details
Historical Fiction
Russian Literature
Action / Adventure
WWII / World War II
Military / War
History: World