The Book Thief is Markus Zusak's fifth work. First published in 2005, it was on The New York Times' best seller list for over 230 weeks and has won numerous awards. In addition, The Book Thief was made into a movie in 2013.Liesel Meminger is a nine year old orphan living in 1939 Nazi Germany. Fortunately, she does not have to face the world alone - she is taken in by Hans and Rosa Hubermann. Hans teaches Liesel how to read and inspires her love for words and books. Sometime after Liesel settles in, the Hubermanns hide a Jew in their basement, and Liesel learns to adjust.
The Book Thief is narrated by Death, who tells the story through a detailed and omniscient lens. Death's account of Liesel's journey adds a dark, humorous tone which is surprising and unexpected.
Zusak's writing is stellar. The book is chock full of clever comparisons, interesting chapter juxtapositions, and well thought-out symbols. The writing was the best aspect of the book.
This is a book which I felt was almost perfect. It pulls on every thread of emotion and I really admire Zusak for accomplishing such a feat. A solid, well-deserved five out of five stars.
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