The Good Reader Blog

The Good Reader Blog
Source of the painting - Couch on the Porch, Cos Cob, Frederick Childe Hassam, 1914

Monday, August 11, 2025

Book Review: The Art Thief by Michael Finkel

The Art Thief The Art Thief by Michael Finkel
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fascinating true story of Stephane Breitwieser who stole hundreds of pieces of art over a period of years in France, Germany and Austria.  He started the thefts when he was 23, along with the help of his girlfriend Anne-Catherine Kleinklaus.  They stole paintings, sculpture, tapestry, musical instruments, and much more.  They displayed their treasures in their sitting room and bedroom, located on the second floor of his mother's house.  

This is narrative non-fiction at its finest -- actually more of a mystery novel or thriller.  It's quite a page-turner and will definitely be showing up in my top ten books of 2025!  Just wait until you find out what happens after he gets arrested!

Michael Finkel thoroughly researched the book, spending dozens of hours interviewing Breitwieser and even visiting art museums with him.  I can't recommend it enough; run, don't walk, to your local bookstore or library to get a copy.  You won't be disappointed!

Read more of my reviews at https://thegoodreader13.blogspot.com/.  

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