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Description
It’s just a small story really, about among other things: a girl, some words, an accordionist, some fanatical Germans, a Jewish fist-fighter, and quite a lot of thievery. . . . Set during World War II in Germany, Markus Zusak’s groundbreaking new novel is the story of Liesel Meminger, a... read more
Ridiculously Simplified Synopsis
Summary
A deeply moving story, The Book Thief by Markus Zusak centers around a young girl named Liesel in Nazi Germany during the Second World War. The book begins with Death, the narrator of story, giving brief descriptions of the three times he encountered Liesel or, as he calls her, "The Book... read more (warning: may contain spoilers)
Cast of Characters
- Death: The Narrator of the story
- Liesel Meminger: A young girl, known by Death as The Book Thief
- Hans Hubermann: Liesel's foster father.
- Rosa Hubermann: Liesel's foster mother
- Rudy Steiner: Leisel's best friend, neighbor, and partner in crime.
- Max Vandenberg: A Jewish fistfighter in his 20's
- Ilsa Hermann: Wife of the mayor of Liesel's town and owner of a private library where she lets Liesel read.
- Frau Holtzeaffel: Leisel's Neighbor.
Memorable Quotes
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“A last note from your narrator: I am haunted by humans.”
Death -
“There were stars" he said. "They burned my eyes.”
Max Vandenberg - Show all quotations from this book (warning: contains spoilers)
First Sentence
First the colors. Then the humans. That's how I usually see things.
Table of Contents
Glossary
- Pfennig: A copper-coated iron coin used in Germany.
Authors & Contributors
- Markus Zusak (Author)
Awards
- Michael L. Printz Award Honor Book (2007)
- Boeke Prize (2007)
- Commonwealth Writers Prize (2006: Best Book)
- ALA Best Books (2007: Young Adults)
- Book Sense Book of the Year (2006)
- Kirkus Reviews Editor Choice Award ( 2006)
- School Library Journal Best Book of the Year (2006)
- Booklist Children's Editors' Choice (2006)
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