"The Thirty-Nine Steps" is a novel written by John Buchan in 1915. It follows the story of Richard Hannay, a man who becomes embroiled in a conspiracy after discovering a plot to assassinate a foreign leader. As he flees from both the police and enemy agents, Hannay must use his wits and resourcefulness to survive. The book is a classic example of the thriller genre and has been adapted into various films and stage productions, most notably by Alfred Hitchcock in 1935. Its themes of espionage, adventure, and the struggle for survival have made it a lasting favorite among readers.