The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak

The eighth book I read this year was “The Book Thief” by Marcus Zusak. I bought this book when I went to D.C. when I went through the Holocaust Museum gift shop. However, I didn’t have the chance to read it until I had to for class.

From the first page, I was entranced. “Here’s a small fact: You are going to die.” I mean, what an interest grabber that is! And the fact that this story is narrated by death made me really enjoy it! WWII along with the Holocaust created a lot of work for Death - and he wasn’t too happy about it.

This novel gave me a different perspective of the era. Usually, I just always saw it from a Jew’s point of view - and that (of course) was always depressing. But the fact that Liesel isn’t the Jewish person in the scenario, allowed me a different view of the time period. In a way, I liked the fact that the main character wasn’t a Jew because it allowed me to see what was going on outside of the camps and what other peoples’ opinions of Jews were.

I absolutely adored Hans, Liesel’s foster-father. He immediately accepted his new daughter and helped her get through her brother’s death and her separation from her mother. Rosa, Liesel’s foster-mother was also well loved by me, even if she was tough and didn’t show love to Liesel in the usual way.

There was a bit of a romantic element between Liesel, Max (the Jew in her basement), and Rudy (Liesel’s best friend). However, I was expecting a bit more…and I’m not exactly sure why.

The symbolism of words in this story was outstanding! I have no idea how Marcus Zusak came up with the idea! It’s just amazing and he never lets you lose focus on it.

There were definitely slow parts - but I think that happens in every story. However, I didn’t really mind this because there were also times where I couldn’t put it down! The ending was a mix of both - but definitely not because it was slow, but because I didn’t want it to end like it was, but at the same time I loved how it finally ended. I really didn’t want it to end. I’m still a bit confused about the ending, but I really like to think that it ended like I think it did. J

I rate this book 5/5 stars. Definitely read this book!

With eternal love and blessings,
Officially Inspired

p.s. Sorry for the delay - I know I finished this book a while ago.
p.s.s. Did you know that I’m going to write a holocaust book? I’m excited to get started. Don’t know when I will though.