A dashing spy, an international plot, a thrilling chase—it's all something with which modern-day audiences are familiar. James Bond movies have reached critical acclaim, and countless other television shows, movies and books have followed a similar plot line. But where did these stories originate? The Thirty-Nine Steps. It is among the first of the spy genre. Richard Hannay is just back home in London when an American spy approaches him. As the story begins, pending war is brewing, and the American spy is privy to some key information that could potentially be a detriment to Europe. In short, the life of the Greek Primer was in danger and British plans were about to be stolen. The American spy is soon killed by the enemy, and rather than face possible blame for his death, Hannay carries on the spy's mission on his own. Will he be successful in eluding not only the evil plotters on his tail, but also police?