Local author brings the worlds greatest ‘Art Thief’ to American audience

Local author, Michael Finkel will be signing his new book "The Art Thief" at Dolly's Books June 27. Photo: Courtesy of Michael Finkel

PARK CITY, Utah—Local author Michael Finkel will sign his new book “The Art Thief” on Tuesday, June 27, at Dolly’s Bookstore at 510 Main Street, at 5:30 p.m.

This is the author’s fourth published book that tells the astonishing true story of an art lover turned art thief.

Stéphane Breitwieser, in his 50s and still alive today, stole over 300 Renaissance works of art worth a staggering $2 billion. His bedroom lair was transformed into an art gallery of epic proportions, displaying his priceless collection and his passion for art.

“I lived in France for seven years, and I am the only American the art thief has ever spoken to,” Finkel said. “We did our interviews in French, and I am looking forward to introducing Breitwieser to an American audience; I have already sold the rights to the film.”

“The Art Thief” tells the story of Breitwieser and his girlfriend, who served as his lookout, as he stole the masterpieces during the day in a non-violent way, as they carried out over two hundred heists from all over Europe, scoring more than three hundred objects in just over eight years.

Finkel spent 11 years researching and interviewing for “The Art Thief” and looks forward to sharing this untold story with readers who will find an ending with a twist.

“If you can guess how this book ends, I will refund your money,” Finkle joked. “At the book signing, I will be sharing how to steal art; although I don’t endorse it, I am going to share the secret to the world’s greatest art thief.”

The Art Thief” has been selected as the #1 Indie Next pick for July 2023. This accolade is a great achievement, as this is the first nonfiction book to earn the #1 pick in the past two years.