Feather Thief Check Availability

Nonfiction

In 2009, Edwin Rist, an American student at London’s Royal Academy of Music, stole 299 rare and scientifically significant bird skins from the Natural History Museum at Tring, plucked their feathers, and sold them for top dollar to men who shared his obsession with the Victorian art of salmon-fly tying. Johnson explores the expensive and exotic hobby of salmon-fly tying that emerged in the 19th century and uses that context to frame Rist’s story, including his trial. A page-turning tale about obsession, nature, and man’s “unrelenting desire to lay claim to its beauty, whatever the cost.” Published in 2018; 308 pages.

Includes 15 paperback copies and 1 book club guide prepared by WCPL.