The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

The Story:  It's 1939.  Nazi Germany.  Death has never been busier, but still takes time to watch Liesel Meminger's story unfold.
     Liesel's life is forever changed when she finds The Grave Digger's Handbook,  partially obscured by the snow, at her brother's funeral.  It sparks her love of words ,  and when she arrives at the Hubermann's,  her accordion-playing foster father teaches her how to read.  Soon, she starts stealing books everywhere- from Nazi book burnings to the mayor's wife's library,  some with the help of her best friend, Rudy Steiner.
    But Liesel's world is about to be turned upside down.  When her loving father, Hans Hubermann, decides to hide a Jew in their basement,  her life becomes much more dangerous.  As she learns more about the man in the basement, Liesel and Max start to become great friends.  Yet, with the constant air raids, and meager supply of food, will Max survive?  After all, hiding a dead Jew is just as dangerous as a live one. 
  Who will Death carry away in Liesel's life? Max?  Her papa- who soon goes to war?  Even Rudy?  In Nazi Germany, Death is always busy.

Chloe's Critique:  This has to be one of my favorite books I've ever read.  There is a certain depth to each character that makes it seem like you've known them forever.  My favorite character has to be Rudy.  Oh... that saukerl  Rudy.  The crazy kid who painted himself to be Jesse Owens, the fearless best friend, always longing for the Book Thief's kiss.  The story is told from a very interesting, yet fitting narrator- Death.  He is not a cruel, sadistic soul; just a tired soul , exhausted by his immortality and job.  He's afraid of humans because they have a way of growing on him, but when they die, he feels the emptiness inside of him.  This is probably one of the best books in the century.  If you haven't read it, go to your bookstore, or library and read it!  You won't be disappointed.

Rating:  5/5 Stars