The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Summary

This is a story narrated by Death and is set in Germany during World War II. The main character is nine year old Liesel Meminger who has lost her own family and is living with a foster family. She forges a deep bond with her new Papa who teaches her to read. Since most books were banned by the Nazis during that time, Liesel begins stealing books to feed her craving and passion for them. Her first stolen book, 'The Gravediggers Handbook’, was left at her brother’s grave. The narrator, Death, is a somewhat stressed character who fears humans and does not particularly enjoy his work reaping souls. He sees himself as an overworked laborer who has a cruel boss - War. Although reluctant to get involved with humans, he is drawn into Liesel’s world. Her joy and escape from the horrors of WWII comes from the words her foster father reads to her, and words become a large part of her relationship with Max, a Jew they are hiding in their basement. As described in the book, words are powerful, capable of good and evil, and sadly, Liesel discovers that words, not tanks, were the foundation of World War II.

Discussion

-Although this historical fiction novel is targeted to young adult readers, it is also very much an adult read. It is the telling of the holocaust as seen through a child’s eyes.

-The telling of the story through Death gives it unique and unexpected twists throughout. It is often times satirical with language such as Death gathering up children softly or noting the “stupid gallantry” of humans.

-Although there were sections in the middle of the book that were a bit slow, we all agreed that it was a very moving story. The book is quite lengthy at 550 pages, but is still a quick read.

-The characters - Liesel, Rudy (Liesel’s best friend), her foster parents, and Max, were all believable and very human characters.

-We were all disappointed that one of Rudy’s most fervent wishes was never fulfilled, which was a simple act from Liesel.

-This book is very well written, appealing, and manages to show the good side of humanity during the horrors of the war and the holocaust. We highly recommend this book.

Click the link below to see an interview with Markus Zusak.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7B8ioiZz7M