It Takes a Thief

It Takes a Thief, originally titled 'Big Joe and the Nth Generation,' is a science fiction short story by Walter M. Miller, published in 1952. Set on a dying Mars, it follows Asir, a young thief facing execution for his crimes against the tribal order. Instead of death, he is banished and embarks on an adventure with Mara, the daughter of a powerful kinsman, to uncover the secrets of ancient Martian technology that could save their world. The narrative explores themes of knowledge, power, and redemption, while challenging societal norms through the lens of myth and reality.