It Takes a Thief

Name: It Takes a Thief
Author: Walter M. Miller

By Walter M. Miller

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About This Book

A young ritual-thief in a dying Martian colony faces public punishment for stealing sacred mnemonic phrases that serve as currency; while suspended and awaiting a blade, memories of his marginal life and the social mechanics of ritual ownership reveal a culture that preserves technology only as fragmented chants. He has stolen technical passages that indicate the planet's atmosphere is leaking and that an ancient subterranean fire must be rekindled to avert collapse, yet the village's jealous hierarchy enforces harsh penalties, and a last-minute judgment spares execution but condemns him to exile.

About the Author

Walter M. Miller

Walter M. Miller Jr. was an American science fiction writer best known for his novel "A Canticle for Leibowitz," which explores themes of religion, history, and the cyclical nature of civilization. His work often reflects a deep philosophical inquiry into humanity's future and moral dilemmas. In addition to his acclaimed novel, Miller wrote several short stories and novellas, including "Check and Checkmate" and "Death of a Spaceman," which showcase his unique blend of speculative fiction and thought-provoking narratives. His contributions to the genre have left a lasting impact, making him a notable figure in mid-20th century science fiction.