The Book Thief by Markus Zusak Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of The Book Thief
Book Review: A book for keeping
Summary: 5 Stars
I thought I was going to hate this book. If my book club hadn't selected it that particular month, I would never have picked it up. Despite my doubts, I checked it out of my local library and gave it a go.
The first pages were difficult because I was so put off by the strange premise of having the events narrated by Death, and by the unusual phrasing and word choices. But somewhere along the way I got sucked into the story. I began to realize that the phrasing and word choices were brilliant, arresting, moving. By the end of the book, I realized this story had to be told by Death, that this was part of its power. Death was the constant outsider, "haunted by humans," a witness of every kind of depravity and nobility. By the end of the book, I knew it was one of the finest I had ever read. Months and months later, I am still moved to tears when I think of some of the characters and the things Death said about them.
I agree with those who are mystified at this being classified as YA. Not that young adults wouldn't understand or enjoy this book, but that it's fully complex, original, and polished enough to stand with the best "literary" books out there.
I feel a re-read coming on. Maybe this time I'll buy my own copy so it'll be there when I need it.
Book Review: A book for the ages- all ages
Summary: 5 Stars
Why oh why is this exquisite multifaceted multilayered book being only marketed as young adult? I almost didn't buy it because of the age it claims to be for-I am 56 and a quality literature maven. The Book Thief is one of the most extraordinary books I have read- the quality of writing, the story, the honesty, the wisdom are all rare and unique. I will be reading it again slowly to savor its words.Book Review: A book that you MUST own
Summary: 5 Stars
There is no better read out there now then this very book. It's that simple. You must read this book. It'll make you angry. It'll make you cry. It'll send chills of emotions running up your spine.
It is more then a holocaust story. It is more then just another book. It is a perfection of language and intriguing mastery of imagery and emotions.
So why are you still reading reviews? Buy this book. Then buy copies to give to your family and friends. Cheers
Book Review: A book you will remember.
Summary: 5 Stars
Told by the narrator Death, The Book Thief is the story of Liesel Meminger, who is a nine-year-old girl during Nazi Germany. After losing her family, Liesel must move to Himmel Street. During Liesel's stay at her foster family's home, she discovers something she loves: books. Liesel steals the books, while her foster father teaches her to read. On Himmel Street, Liesel also becomes best friends with Rudy Steiner, a boy who admires Jesse Owens and has a crush on Liesel. Together, they have many antics, which include stealing books. Along with Rudy, Liesel shares her books with Max Vandenburg, a Jewish fistfighter...
Some books leave an imprint on you, and The Book Thief was one of those books. From the very beginning, I had a feeling I would enjoy the novel, but I was cautious because setting high expectations is an easy way to ruin a book. The Book Thief surpassed any expectations I had. Markus Zusak takes a common setting, Germany during WWII, and puts an unique twist on it. The stories of Liesel, Max, Rudy, and all the other characters had so much heart, which is unusual for a book set during a time of death and sorrow.
Zusak's characterizations themselves were also quite interesting. My favorite characterization is easily Death. Throughout the novel, Zusak humanizes Death. Death is shocked by mankind's brutal nature. Death's typical characterization is generally cold and heartless, but to have a sympathetic Death was, in my mind, brilliant. This characterization makes me really think about the power of humans, and how we should all perform acts of kindness, rather than hate. I mean, it's pretty bad when Death itself is appalled. Anyway, I also loved Zusak's characterization of humans. Throughout the novel, humans are dehumanized by their various acts, including most obviously, their treatment of Jews. Zusak, however, also showcases various acts of kindness and shows readers that humans have the capability to be kind. With a story that is surrounded by cruelty, I think this was a powerful and important message.
I would recommend this novel to anyone looking for a story set in Nazi Germany.
Book Review: A breathtaking, awesome noveles, we know a great deal about
Summary: 5 Stars
Yes, we know a great deal about Germany during WWII. And yes, we've read lots of novels about the average German citizen during this period. But, absolutely NO!, this novel is not like the rest; it will grab you, hold you captive, and only release you when it's finished, and you will be sad because of that. THe characters are real and touch your heart, and will remain with you long after you have put the book down. And though it's recommended for young adults, please beleve it's intended for us all.