“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...” (From the inner book jacket)
THE HEROINE
In The Book Thief Markus Zusak tells the story of Leisel Meminger, a nine year-old orphan living in Nazi Germany. Leisel steals food in order to survive, but she steals books in order to live. Utilizing vivid language and a haunting tone Zusak honestly and eloquently portrays the struggles of a young girl faced with prejudice, fear, love and her own mortality. Although many of the adult characters in the book will find places of honor within the heart of the reader, Leisel’s courage, honesty and vulnerability mark her as the true heroine in The Book Thief.
THE SUPPORTING CAST
The Book Thief overflows with memorable, lovable characters that enhance, shape and even save the life of Leisel, the Book Thief. Hans and Rosa Hubermann accept the daunting task of parenting an orphan during the lean years of World War II. Hans, the gentle father figure, nurtures Leisel and teaches her to read, a gift which will change everyone’s future. Rosa is as stern as Hans is warm, but her love for Leisel shows through her gruffness. Max Vandenburg, “The Man in the Basement”, befriends Leisel and becomes her living example of the plight of the Jews, while Frau Hermann, the mayor’s wife, gives her a glimpse of the other side of the German people. Perhaps the dearest supporting character of all is Rudy, whose tender feelings for Leisel add an element of warmth and childhood innocence to a very dark story. In fact, Leisel and Rudy’s coming-of-age love story reminds all readers of the importance of demonstrating affection when given the opportunity.
THE NARRATOR
Leisel doesn’t tell her own story in The Book Thief; Death does. Throughout each page he narrates with a matter-of-fact, emotionless delivery, occasionally offering hints of feeling. He is not unkind, frightening or evil; rather, Death is direct in his relating of Leisel’s story.
A FINAL NOTE
Although not intended for young children or struggling readers, parents and teachers should not hesitate to choose this book for pre-teens and teens. It would make a great family or class read. Although it contains a sprinkling of profanity and focuses on very adult themes, the book offers multiple opportunities for discussing two very sensitive topics with children – prejudice and death.
The Holocaust itself provides the perfect example of the atrocities brought about by hate, fear and misunderstanding. Leisel personalizes the inner struggle to accept those different than us while desiring to fit in with our peers. In his role as narrator, Death also tells his own story, which in many ways offers comfort to young ones who fear the end of life. Read The Book Thief with your child; it will steal your hearts.
The Book Thief
By Markus Zusak
Copyright 2005, by Markus Zusak
Published by Random House, Inc., New York
ISBN: 0-375-83100-2
