That said, this would be an excellent read for a book club. I could discuss all the plot points, each character, and every single line in this book in detail, but we don’t have time for that. …That sounds weird, doesn’t it? Oh, well. Their voice can be strangely charismatic sometimes, strangely familiar. And Death actually has a lot of… personality, if that’s the right word. Death has a fascinating voice-providing us a different, wider perspective than what Liesel can give. Considering the time period, this is an appropriate, if sobering, choice. But it’s not Death tells us the story from his/her/their POV. When I first read this book, I expected it to be Liesel from the description. It’s captivating to read.Ī lot of why this book draws me in-other than the plot, characters, and all-around fantastic writing-is the narrator.

He’s very poetic and possesses a rather unique voice. Zusak has such an innovative way of describing actions, emotions, and events. WWII was such an awful time, and yet Zusak shows us that even out of suffering, incredible things can occur.Īnd the writing. The themes he tackles are difficult but well handled. Zusak understands that some things cannot be sugar-coated, so he doesn’t shy away from showing the tragedy, violence, and evil of Nazi Germany. The historical elements are excellent, accurate, and give this tale a dark tone. And all the side characters hold their own and are amazing.

Hans and Rosa are wonderful if rather unconventional parents, Liesel’s friend Rudy provides both laughter and heartbreak, and Max makes you believe in the strength of humanity. She goes through so much but never loses her childlike wonder at stories.

Liesel is a marvelous protagonist, very sweet and thoughtful and strong. Liesel bonds with Max quickly, and through their friendship, she learns how powerful-and dangerous-words are.įirst of all, I adore the characters. Though the conflict in Europe is escalating, her foster parents, Rosa and Hans, agree to hide a Jewish man, Max, in their basement. Once settled in her new home, she starts to learn how to read it. At his burial, Liesel impulsively steals a book from a grave digger. Markus Zusak tells us the story-set during the Second World War-of a girl named Liesel Meminger, who goes to a small town outside Munich to live with foster parents.

The book thief i am the messenger