In one sense, Bernie, the good thief, is a "hipper," streetwise version of Robin Hood. He is someone who goes outside the law and is sanctioned by society to exercise his true talents, in opposition to the corrupt, illegitimate establishment. On the other hand, Bernie does not rob the rich to give to the poor; he robs for his own too-poor self or for a friend in trouble (such as Carolyn whose cat has been kidnapped).

Other literary ancestors of Bernie include A. F. Raffles, gentleman jewel thief, created by E. W. Hornung, and the Saint, Simon Templar, who acts outside the law to right injustices. The Saint was created by Leslie Charteris.

Another gentleman jewel thief was the hero of To Catch a Thief, first a film and then a very different television series.

Other caper books that combine adventure and humor include some of...