Museum of Thieves by Lian Tanner

This is the first book in the Keepers Trilogy, following the adventures of Golden (Goldie) Roth in the strange city of Jewel.  Goldie, like all other children, is tethered to her parents most of the time with a guardchain in order to keep her safe. During the day, children are relentlessly overseen by the Blessed Guardians, and at night, they are chained to their beds.  But on Separation Day, Goldie will get to be separated from her parents and given a few small freedoms to roam on her own.  An unexpected danger causes the separation to be cancelled, and in a rush of rebelliousness, Goldie runs away. As she takes refuge in the Museum of Dunt, she learns how to be a thief and a spy, and also finds she has the ability to think and act for herself.  The museum has magically protected Jewel from all dangerous situations, but what will happen if the museum is invaded by the guardians and their deceitful leader?  Goldie must discover her inner courage and strength to save her new friends, her family, and the whole city.

I listened to this on audiobook, read by actress Claudia Black, and it was very well done. I am excited to read book number two, City of Lies, next.  Kids who enjoyed City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau, The Giver by Lois Lowry, First Light by Rebecca Stead or Margaret Peterson Haddix’s Shadow Children series would enjoy Lian Tanner’s writing.

Reviewed by Jennifer

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