"The Goldfinch" by Donna Tartt follows the life of Theo Decker, a young boy who survives a terrorist attack at an art museum that kills his mother. In the chaos, he steals a small painting, "The Goldfinch," which becomes a symbol of beauty and loss, shaping his future. Following the tragedy, Theo is taken in by a wealthy family but struggles with grief and guilt, leading him to a turbulent adolescence.
As he grows up, Theo becomes entangled in the underground art world, driven by his obsession with the painting. This journey explores themes of love, trauma, and the search for identity amidst chaos. His relationships with other characters, including the mysterious Boris, highlight the complexities of friendship and loyalty.