The Feather Thief by Kirk Wallace Johnson offers an engaging true-crime narrative that blends history, science, and mystery. Many readers commend its meticulous research and compelling storytelling. However, some critics find the pacing uneven and the author's personal asides distracting. Overall, it excels as a unique and intriguing exploration of an unusual heist.

A reader who enjoys gripping true-crime stories, historical heists, and tales of obsession will find The Feather Thief by Kirk Wallace Johnson captivating. Fans of Susan Orlean's The Orchid Thief and John Berendt's Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil will appreciate the blend of meticulous research and compelling narrative.

The Feather Thief by Kirk Wallace Johnson recounts the 2009 heist at the British Natural History Museum at Tring, executed by the 20-year-old American flautist and fly-tier Edwin Rist, who stole 299 rare bird skins. Johnson, dealing with PTSD, started investigating to cope, uncovering the historical, cultural, and scientific implications of the crime and humankind's obsession with feathers. The book includes discussions of PTSD and mental health diagnoses.

Mysterious / Informative / Unnerving / Adventurous / Contemplative

Kirk Wallace Johnson

Adult

Book

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Feather Thief and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Feather Thief Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Feather Thief Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Dead Birds and Rich Men”

Prologue and Part 1, Chapters 1-3

The Feather Thief Prologue and Part 1, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 4-6

The Feather Thief Part 1, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Tring Heist”

Part 2, Chapters 7-9

The Feather Thief Part 2, Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 10-14

The Feather Thief Part 2, Chapters 10-14 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 15-17

The Feather Thief Part 2, Chapters 15-17 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Truth and Consequences”

Part 3, Chapters 18-21

The Feather Thief Part 3, Chapters 18-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 22-25

The Feather Thief Part 3, Chapters 22-25 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

The Feather Thief Key Figures

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Themes

The Feather Thief Themes

Index of Terms

The Feather Thief Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

The Feather Thief Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Feather Thief Essay Topics

The Feather Thief

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Feather Thief?

Reading Age

Book Details