Elementor #8161

The Thief’s Story

Summary:

The story follows a 15-year-old thief who targets Arun, a generous, trusting man, hoping to steal his money. The thief earns Arun’s trust by helping with chores, learning to read and write from him, and eventually becoming close to him. Despite his initial intentions, the thief finds himself transformed by Arun’s kindness. In a moment of inner conflict, he decides not to rob Arun and ultimately chooses an honest path.

Characters

1. The Thief (Narrator): A 15-year-old boy skilled in stealing, who goes unnamed. He initially plans to steal from Arun but gradually changes his mindset due to Arun’s kindness.
2. Arun: A kind, educated man who offers shelter, food, and even teaches the thief to read and write. His generosity impacts the thief deeply, ultimately reforming him.

Short Questions Answer

• Q: Who is the author of The Thief?
  A: Ruskin Bond.

• Q: Who is the main character in the story?
  A: A 15-year-old unnamed thief.

• Q: Who does the thief meet in the story?
  A: Arun.

• Q: What is Arun’s profession?
  A: Arun is a young man who earns a modest living, though his specific job is not mentioned.

• Q: What is the thief’s initial intention towards Arun?
  A: To steal from him.

• Q: Why does the thief choose Arun as his target?
  A: Because Arun is kind, naive, and easy to befriend.

• Q: What favor does the thief offer Arun?
  A: He offers to work for him and help with chores.

• Q: How does Arun help the thief?
  A: Arun provides him with food, shelter, and teaches him to read and write.

• Q: What valuable skill does the thief learn from Arun?
  A: He learns to read and write.

• Q: How does the thief feel about Arun’s kindness?
  A: He feels conflicted and begins to respect Arun, making it hard to steal from him.

• Q: What decision does the thief face during the story?
  A: Whether to rob Arun or stay honest.

• Q: What does the thief attempt to steal from Arun?
  A: Money from Arun’s room.

• Q: What does the thief do after taking the money?
  A: He initially leaves but later regrets his decision and returns.

• Q: How does the thief feel after he steals the money?
  A: He feels guilty and conflicted.

• Q: What does the thief decide to do in the end?
  A: He returns the money and chooses not to steal from Arun.

• Q: Why does the thief ultimately change his mind about stealing?
  A: Arun’s kindness and trust make him feel ashamed and inspire him to be honest.

• Q: What is the main theme of the story?
  A: Transformation through kindness and trust.

• Q: How does Arun react when he finds out the money was returned?
  A: Arun does not confront the thief, showing he understands and forgives him.

• Q: What lesson does the thief learn in the story?
  A: That kindness and trust can lead to personal change and redemption.

• Q: What is the story’s message?
  A: Genuine kindness and trust can reform even those who seem lost.