Autobiography of a Thief by Hutchins Hapgood is a captivating and gripping account of the life of a thief in the early 20th century. Hapgood's writing style is both vivid and immersive, allowing readers to truly understand the mindset and motivations of the protagonist.

The narrative follows the protagonist as he navigates through a life of crime, detailing the challenges and moral dilemmas he faces along the way. Hapgood's portrayal of the thief as a complex and multifaceted character adds depth and authenticity to the story.

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is the way in which Hapgood explores the societal factors that push individuals towards a life of crime. Through the protagonist's perspective, readers are able to gain insight into the struggles faced by those on the margins of society.

Overall, Autobiography of a Thief is a thought-provoking and thought-provoking read that sheds light on the complexities of human nature and the consequences of societal inequality. Hapgood's skillful storytelling and deep understanding of human psychology make this book a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the darker aspects of human behavior.

Book Description:
I met the ex-pickpocket and burglar whose autobiography follows soon after his release from a third term in the penitentiary. For several weeks I was not particularly interested in him. He was full of a desire to publish in the newspapers an exposé of conditions obtaining in two of our state institutions, his motive seeming partly revenge and partly a very genuine feeling that he had come in contact with a systematic crime against humanity. But as I continued to see more of him, and learned much about his life, my interest grew; for I soon perceived that he not only had led a typical thief's life, but was also a man of more than common natural intelligence, with a gift of vigorous expression... I therefore proposed to him to write an autobiography. He took up the idea with eagerness, and through the entire period of our work together, has shown an unwavering interest in the book and very decided acumen and common sense. The method employed in composing the volume was that, practically, of the interview. From the middle of March to the first of July we met nearly every afternoon, and many evenings, at a little German café on the East Side. There, I took voluminous notes, often asking questions, but taking down as literally as possible his story in his own words; to such a degree is this true, that the following narrative is an authentic account of his life, with occasional descriptions and character-sketches of his friends of the Under World. Even without my explicit assurance, the autobiography bears sufficient internal evidence of the fact that, essentially, it is a thief's own story.