The Book Thief

You will recommend The Book Thief to all your friends, but never want to part with your own copy, because you'll want to read it again. Much of the prose is astounding. Although it may be recommended for young adults, this work is rich in creativity and depth of its characters and truly is a book for all ages. It will be a classic and it is no wonder that it has won many awards.

Zusak immediately thrusts us into the inventive character of Death as the narrator: 'Here is a small fact. You are going to die.' It is then we meet Liesel, a young German girl who has suffered the death of her younger brother, the disappearance of her mother and her placement in the Huberman foster home. Her foster mother, Rosa, has a harsh demeanor but her foster father, Hans, her friend, Rudy Steiner, and a Jew named Max -each help her find her own way in Nazi Germany. Leisel steals her first book at the grave of her brother and learns to read it from her foster father. Later, she steals more books from the Mayor's wife and learns the power of words, even how the words of Hitler influence a nation.

Teachers of literature should recommend this book to their students so they can learn to appreciate the genius of how words are used to captivate and enlighten. In a brief sentence, Zusak can paint a picture, deliver an emotional punch and skillfully use language to transport the reader to another place and time. This work is a sheer joy to read!

I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this book given the subject matter. I loved it. I found the story haunting and thought provoking. Markus Zusak's writing is creative and poetic. I definitely encourage readers to check this one out.

I have never felt compelled to write a review until now because I feel so strongly about this book. This story is told from such a unique perspective and is so creatively written. There is so much heart and feeling in this book that i was sad for it to come to an end. I will definitely be reading it again and I've been recommending it to everyone, and so far I've gotten nothing but positive feedback.
It is a touching story with characters that you will truly fall in love with. Read this book and even if you don't love it as much as I did, you'll still be glad you did :)

CD set stolen. since i didn't listen to any more than the first CD, i cannot make a review for you. Sorry.

Excellent, excellent, excellent book! Written in a truly unique voice that keeps you wanting to read on. This book will stay with you long after you've finished it. Highly recommend!