A Bandit's Tale: The Muddled Adventures of a Pickpocket

Reviewed by: Kris Zuidema - retired school librarian, Standish, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: June 8, 2016

Review

Eleven year old Rocco Zaccaro arrives in New York City in 1887. He is forced to work as a street musician by the padrone who brought him from Italy. Rocco's parents were promised $20 a year for four years as long as Rocco continues to work for the padrone. The conditions that Rocco and the other children must endure are deplorable. Rocco finds another way to earn the required $1 day, though it is dangerous if he is caught. This well written story is told from Rocco's point of view in a style called a picaresque novel. Black and white photographs from the time period enhance the well written text. The author beautifully blends fiction and real events making this story engaging and full of adventure. Actual people are included such as the social reformer, Henry Bergh who is remembered for his commitment to helping children and animals after witnessing their cruel treatment during his travels. Phrases from the 1903 "Autobiography of a Thief" are used throughout the book adding authenticity to the way pickpockets spoke at the time. I highly recommend this book because of its wide appeal to a variety of readers and for classroom use.

Overall Book Score: excellent