Series: N/A
Author: Markus Zusak
Genre: Young Adult, Historical Fiction
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: March 8, 2016 (first published 2005)
Source: Gifted. Thank you!
It’s just a small story really, about among other things: a girl, some words, an accordionist, some fanatical Germans, a Jewish fist-fighter, and quite a lot of thievery. . . .
Set during World War II in Germany, Markus Zusak’s groundbreaking new novel is the story of Liesel Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich. Liesel scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement before he is marched to Dachau.
This is an unforgettable story about the ability of books to feed the soul.
Find The Book Thief online!
I've seen this book around for years; ever since I really began reading YA, it's been a constant presence on the shelves at book stores but I never really picked it up or learned what it was about. Having finally picked it up and read it, I'm happy I waited so long. I don't think this book would have affected me the way it has if I had read it when I was younger.
This book was just . . . amazing. So brutal and honest and hopeful and sad. I swear, I was just crying the entire time. I loved the perspective that it was told from -- our narrator was Death but he focused mostly on the life of Liesel, a young German girl during WWII. It was eye opening to see Liesel participate in groups such as the Hitler Youth without really understanding what it was about or what was happening in the world. As she grew up and saw what exactly was happening, her anger and resentment toward Hitler and the war steadily grew.
The book was really slow burning and not a lot happened very quickly but it was addicting. I couldn't put it down, desperate to know read about what happens, despite knowing exactly what happens. That was almost harder than not knowing -- from the very first chapter, Death informs the reader exactly what will happen to the characters in the end and yet, I still found myself hoping Death was lying. I just wanted everything to be alright; I wanted to take all of these characters and keep them in a nice, cushioned room with lots of books to keep them safe.
I'm so, so, so happy I read this book when I did. It hit me, guys. And I don't think I'll soon forget the impact that it's had on me. I already want to reread it, even though I know it will 100% send me into a crying fit. It's such an important book to read and it gave me a new perspective on the second world war. I just love it, and I think everyone should read it.
“I have hated words and I have loved them, and I hope I have made them right.”
Five Teapots
This book was amazing. I cried so much, I was actually scared to watch the film afterwards. But it was a nice adaptation too.
ReplyDeleteI'm watching the film on Friday and I'm a bit nervous to watch it. I'm glad to hear it was a good adaptation.
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I'm kinda hesitant to pick up the book, but it's good to read a positive review, since I hear such good stories but just never pick up the book.
ReplyDeleteHope to read it soon! Thanks for the nice review.
I was hesitant, as well! But I'd definitely recommend giving it a shot. It's a bit slow at first but once you get into the story, it's wonderful.
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I completely agree - this is such an emotional and powerful book and I'm glad you enjoyed it as much as I did. :) Thanks for sharing and, as always, fabulous review! <3
ReplyDelete~ Zoe @ Stories on Stage
It really is! I'm so happy to hear that so many other people have loved it as much as I do!
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