by Markus Zusak
Published in 2005
12+ years
Suggested age group
Historical Fiction
Genre
What is The Book Thief by Markus Zusak About?
The Book Thief is a World War 2 historical fiction set in Nazi Germany. The story explores friendship, loss, courage and the emotional impact of war on ordinary families during the Holocaust. Recommended for readers aged 12+, or advanced young readers who are comfortable with emotional historical fiction themes.
Discover our Review and Summary of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
The Book Thief is a tale of budding love and friendship, set amidst the darkness of a devastating war.
The Book Thief is based in Nazi Germany, where a girl called Liesel is sent to live with foster parents, Rosa and Hans Hubberman. They became the best thing that could have come her way at that point in her life. Throughout her life in Germany, she makes a group of loyal friends, meets her first love, and goes through periods of ups and downs.
My favourite part was when Liesel meets Max, who soon becomes her best friend and sticks with her all the way. Max, undoubtedly, was one of the great people who made a huge impact on Liesel’s life.
My favourite character in the book is Rudy, Liesel’s best friend. He was her beacon of hope and always put a positive spin on even the most challenging situations.
The story becomes very grim when the author describes Hitler’s wrath towards innocent Jews. This made me think very deeply about the atrocities of World War I and World War II, and how dark and insufferable those times must have been. Jews were not treated like human beings, but more like a pathetic pack of unworthy creatures. I think Hitler’s plan to exploit and exterminate an entire race can only be described as demonic and unforgivable.
Is The Book Thief Worth Reading?
I genuinely loved the book and felt a connection with every character in Liesel’s life. It’s a brilliant, thought-provoking book. I can guarantee tears and laughter along the way.
One must wonder, though – why the title, The Book Thief? I leave it to your best guess!
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