The Book Theif

Zusak, M. (2005). The book thief.  NY: Alfred A. Knopf.

9 year old Liesel Meminger is living Nazi Germany.  After the death of her brother, her mom sends her off to live with an older couple- Hans Hubermann is gentle and kind and Rosa Hubermann is a short tempered woman not to be crossed.  Liesel begins learning to read, with the help of Hans.  Liesel’s best friend and neighbor, Rudy, is poster boy for German child and with Liesel when she first gets into the Mayor’s house to look at all the books.  One night, the town has a bonfire where they destroy books, but Liesel ends up stealing one.  She’s unkowingly seen by the mayor’s wife.  Liesel also befriends Max, a Jew that the Hubermanns hide in their basement.  When Hans gives a Jew a piece of bread, he puts everyone in danger.  Max has to leave and Hans gets drafted.  An air raid ends up killing Hans, Rosa, and Rudy, but somehow Liesel survives.  Max also ends up surviving the war.  Liesel eventually moves to Australia where Death comes to take her, as an old woman. 

Interestingly, this story is narrated by Death.  It’s really a uniquely written story with several literary elements.  Obviously Death is personified.  Underlying themes of the book are death and love.  The Book Thief is a Printz Honor Book- an award for quality literature for teens.  The masterful writing is really unique- definitely not a quick read.  It makes for a beautiful and exceptionally told story.  Readers will find themselves with their hearts racing, jaws dropped, and tears flowing.  Occasionally there’s even a laugh to be had.  Zusak also wrote I am the Messenger, which may be another book worth reading for those who enjoy The Book Thief.