The New York Times Outstanding Book of the Year for 1973 and an ALA Notable Book, The Real Thief is the story of Gawain, a most honorable goose. Trustworthy and proud, Gawain is given the keys to the king's Royal Treasury and put in charge of security. When rubies begin to disappear, and the world-famous Kalikak diamond vanishes, it looks as if someone is sacking the treasury. Only the king and Gawain have the keys-and why would the king steal from himself? Now Gawain must find a way to preserve his reputation among his now sceptical friends. In the tradition of aesop and the brothers Grimm, William Steig uses animals to illustrate important human character lessons in a way that is both entertaining and poignant. A story of guilt, pride, and trust The Real Thief is one of his most touching and memorable stories, and has enchanted young and old alike.