::READERS REVIEWS::

Extremely Enjoyable - This is the first book I've read from the Burglar series, and my first Block book as well. The highest praise that I can give 'Burglars Can't be Chooseres' is to say that I started it Saturday morning and finished it before I went to bed Saturday night. Now, I read a lot, but I seldom finish a book in one day. 'Burglars Can't be Choosers' is such a breeze to read and every second is loads of fun. I would compare it to Robert B. Parker's Spenser series in that it is very fast paced and doesn't get bogged down with a lot of superfluous details. Also, like the Spenser books, 'Burglars' is full of well-done dialogue that is fun and realistic. If you are looking for a thinking man's mystery, this probably isn't for you, but if you just want an enjoyable, lighthearted mystery that will leave you hungry for more, then Bernie is your man and 'Burglars Can't be Choosers' is your book.

Burglars Can't Be Choosers - I enjoy reading all of LB books but this series is fast reading and allot of twists and turns. Bernie sounds like a real doll but sure can get into trouble.

Bernie R. Hadn't Jelled Yet - This was Lawrence Block's first Bernie Rhodenbarr mystery. Originally published in 1977 it features Block's humor, but it's missing his nifty plotting and three-dimensional women characters. It features yet another example of Block's obsession with lesbians (someone could write a dissertation thesis on this), but this time it seems gratuitious and exploitive. Read this one for background, but there are much better books in the series.

Light-Hearted Caper Novel - Burglars Can't Be Choosers (1977) introduces Bernie Rhodenbarr, a burglar in New York City. While on the job in a fancy apartment, Bernie is surprised by two policemen responding to a call. Recognizing one, Bernie offers a bribe, which is accepted, and all is well until the other cop finds a dead body in the bedroom. Bernie makes a quick escape and hides out in the apartment of an actor acquaintance who is on tour. With the assistance of the girl who appears to water his friend's plants, Bernie is soon on the hunt for the real murderer. Bernie is a charming protagonist, quick-witted and proud of his burglary skills. This lighthearted caper is a fast-moving puzzle with enough surprises to keep you guessing until the end.

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Lawrence Block's favorite character! - Personally, we enjoyed the Matt Scudder and Keller novels by Lawrence Block better than the Bernie Rhodenbarr series! But according to Craig Ferguson, Mr. Block prefers bumbling, burgling Bernie, so what do I know? If you haven't read the 16 Scudder novels, or the 4 Keller novels yet, what the heck are you waiting for???