Susan D. (mom2nine) reviewed The Map Thief: The Gripping Story of an Esteemed Rare-Map Dealer Who Made Millions Stealing Priceless Maps on + 343 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I believe that nonfiction is rated somewhat different than fiction. This book earns five stars for a few reasons: The author has researched extensively, there is no question about facts, which I really appreciate in a nonfiction book. Blanding also explains how historical maps were made and by whom, promoting an understanding on what would make a map valuable. Library and museum collections and how they are viewed and stored are also explained. The book is about Smiley's map theft and Blanding tells of his lifestyle. Somehow he is able to consolidate all of this knowledge in a readable and understandable story. His insights on the historical value (of maps) shed a light on white-collar crime and why it can affect the general public, although it is often not prosecuted severely. Book should be interesting to history buffs, map enthusiasts, and people who wonder why someone would "hurt the institutions we care about the most". Smiley's lawyer p. 184 book was sent through goodreads.com for unbiased/fair review
