“I am not violent, I am not malicious, I am the result” This is an announcement made by the narrator of the book. The lines are spoken by Death Himself. Yes! The novel is narrated in the third person omniscient view of Death. The historical fiction is set in Nazi Germany during World War II. The story takes the readers through the life of a book thief, Liesel Meminger, a young girl in her foster home. The reader is taken through the innocence of the child and her connection with Max, a jew in exile.
The author portrays the horrors of war and highlights the beauty of friendship throughout the novel. It is written in nine parts and contains pictorial illustrations drawn by the protagonist, which intensifies the reader’s connection with the characters. Zusak emphasizes the power of words right from the start of the novel, where Leisel learns to read, and later describes the beauty of her visceral joy in stealing books and reading them. The writing style adopted by Zusak is exceptional and unique as if the readers can get a deep dive into each character and their psyche. The book will be an enthralling read for anyone beyond the age of 12.
The Book Thief is a must-read, as it puts a distinctive perspective and a new insight into the life of common people in Nazi Germany. The morbidity of the war and the rapport between the characters are blended together keeping the reader on the edge of their seats. It is a gripping tale that leaves the reader with questions that will linger in their minds for a long time.
Keep going girl!