Book Review of "The Art Thief" by Noah Charney

[AnythngArt]

Book Review of "The Art Thief" by Noah Charney

During the past 10 years, works by Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore, Edvard Munch, Leonardo da Vinci, Paul Gaugin, and Vincent Van Gogh have all been the targets of art thieves. Even the "Mona Lisa" was once the victim of art theft (an inside job at the Louvre in 1911). Indeed, art theft is the third highest grossing criminal activity (behind only drugs and guns). Along comes the perfect novel, a mystery by art historian Noah Charney, who specializes in just this subject. This is a book for all who love a good mystery, as well as have an interest in art.

"The Art Thief" is a wonderfully written book from first time author Noah Charney, who appears to be the perfect individual to write just such an erudite art mystery. Charney is an art historian who specializes in art theft, and his command of the subject is apparent on every page of this captivating novel. This incredible story combines the finest of character drawings, insight into the world of art auctions and museums, and a thrilling tale that keeps readers guessing until the end.

The story comes to life when three different and seemingly unconnected art thefts occur. The first is at a church in Italy, the country with the most art thefts yearly (we learn from Charney). The next occurs at a private foundation in Paris specializing in modern art. Finally, the last is the theft of a recent acquisition at auction by a London museum, which has been planned to be the centerpiece of an upcoming exhibition.