thechristined

Smith is an illiterate pickpocket who picks the pocket of a man right before he is murdered. Why was he murdered? For the very document now in Smith’s hands.

Smith is a really good and realistic historical fiction book that focuses completely on fictional characters rather than fictional versions of historical figures. The language and imagery completely immerse you in 18th century London from the very first pages. The characters have different and authentic dialects, and talk about real issues from the time period.

Unfortunately, the story starts to drag a bit in the middle as Smith basically sits around waiting for something to happen. However, the pace picks up again in time for a very exciting and surprising ending.

You can read the rest of my review at my blog: http://readerlymusings.com/2013/12/04/book-review-smith-the-story-of-a-pickpocket-by-leon-garfield/