Summary
In The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak, is a suspenseful drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The book takes place in Nazi, Germany during the Holocaust. The narrator is Death himself who is later intrigued by a young German girl named Liesel. She has just lost her brother and her mother has dropped her off at a foster home to have a chance at a better life. There Liesel meets her new parents. A strict yet loving mother, Rosa Hubermann and a calm and sweet father, Hans Hubermann invite Liesel into their home. Here on Himmel Street, Liesel makes new friends including a young German boy named Rudy Steiner who takes a liking to his new found friend. Here, Liesel finds interest in banned books. Even though she does not know how to read, she is determined to learn with the help of her new father, Hans. She finds her first book at the graveyard where her brother was buried and when she comes across other books, she does not hesitate to scoop them up and take them home to read. She later discovers the fascinating book collection in the home of the mayor. His wife, Isla, is deeply troubled after the death of her son and only has these books to comfort her. This is why when Liesel comes to know about these books, Isla does not mind to lend Liesel a few books at a time to ease her mind. Liesel is later named as "the book thief" by Rudy. The whole Hubermann family later comes into deep trouble when they agree to house a Jewish man in their home. This Jew, Max, has come to Hans in a time of need because of promises made in the past. Liesel is at first frightened by this man, but later becomes his friend and only companion. In this book, Death has a habit of taking Liesel's loved ones away. The Book Thief is thrilling and entertaining read. To find out what happens in the end, you will just have to read the book.