It’s 1939 and World War II has just begun. Liesel Meminger is a nine-year-old German girl who is on the way to her new foster home after her brother’s death. She is not sure what to expect, but it certainly does not include hiding a Jew in her basement or meeting a boy who would change her life forever.
Published in 2005, Markus Zusak’s “The Book Thief” is a young adult, historical fiction novel that continues to top the charts with its educational value while including an incredible plot. Transporting the reader into World War II, Zusak brings events to life and creates young, lovable characters.
In Nazi Germany, things have taken a turn for the worst. Fear and oppression have taken over while Liesel tries to get used to her new life. Soon she develops a deep love for books and begins stealing them with her best friend, Rudy Steiner. She also creates a relationship with Max Vandenburg, a jew, who needs protection from the nazis. Throughout the story, Liesel and Rudy stick together to face the challenges of living in this time period.
I think “The Book Thief” is historical fiction at its finest. Narrated by death itself, this book teaches a lesson of heart and struggle. Zusak provides events from the past while also using his spectacular imagination to create a beautiful story that has ups, downs, and everything in between. Will Liesel be able to overcome her challenges as a young girl in 1939? Read to find out!
