The Book Thief – Markus Zusak

Set in Nazi Germany during World War II, The Book Thief follows the story of Liesel Meminger, a young girl sent to live with foster parents in a small town. Narrated uniquely by Death, the novel explores Liesel’s journey as she discovers the power of words and stories. Liesel’s life changes when she steals her first book at her brother’s graveside, sparking a love for reading. Her foster father teaches her to read, and she begins stealing books to share their stories with others. Meanwhile, her family hides a Jewish man, Max, in their basement, forming an intense bond that deepens as the war escalates. Through heartbreak, resilience, and the unrelenting spirit of humanity, the novel examines the power of words to both destroy and heal in the face of unimaginable cruelty.