Customer Reviews

The Mona Lisa Caper

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Who would believe that one of the most famous paintings in the world could be stolen from the Louvre? Not only did Vincenzo Perugia believe it could be done - he did it. The year was 1911 when he stole the Mona Lisa, mistakenly believing that it belonged to Italy he was determined to take it home.

Perugia was apprehended in Florence and brought to trial. The Italians made him a patriotic hero, bringing him so much food, wine, clothing, and other gifts that he had to be given a larger cell. The jury, while sympathetic, did find him guilty. However, by the time of their decision his seven month sentence had already been served and he was set free.

And what of the enigmatic lady, the Mona Lisa? The painting toured Italy before it was returned to its rightful place in Paris.

Quite a story, isn't it? And Rick Jacobson relates it with gusto, allowing the lady in the painting to narrate her adventure. Illustrated by Jacobson and Laura Fernandez, the book is a small gem sure to edify and entertain young readers as well as adults.

- Gail Cooke

The Mona Lisa Caper by Rick Jacobson is based on a real theft that took place on Monday, August 21, 1911 when Vincenzo Perugia stole the famous painting by Leonardo Da Vinci from the Louvre museum in Paris. Vincenzo actually meant well, he wanted to return the painting to the Italian people in the mistaken belief that it had been stolen from them. Vincenzo was caputered in Florence and put on trial. He became something of a hero to the Italian people who gave him so much food, wine, clothing, and furniture that he had to moved to a larger cell. Very nicely illustrated by the Laura Fernandez and Rick Jacobson, The Mona Lisa Caper has the story being narrated by Mona Lisa herself! Lively, imaginative, and fun, The Mona Lisa Caper is enthusiastically recommended for children ages 5 to 7.