Cornelia Funke's "The Thief Lord" is a captivating story set in Venice, where two orphaned brothers, Prosper and Bo, escape from their aunt who plans to take them away from each other. They find refuge with a group of street children led by a mysterious boy named Scipio, known as the Thief Lord. Together, they embark on various adventures, pulling off heists and exploring the magical underbelly of the city.
The narrative delves into themes of family, loyalty, and the clash between childhood innocence and the responsibilities of adulthood. Prosper, the older brother, feels the weight of protecting Bo while grappling with the allure of a carefree life. In contrast, Scipio navigates his own challenges as a leader, revealing deeper complexities about his character over time.