Summary: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 foster girl living outside of Munich. Liesel scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement before he is marched to Dachau.
This is an unforgettable story about the ability of books to feed the soul.
My review: This isn't Anne Frank, this isn't Corrie Ten Boom. This is a different side of the story, richer than real life with careful, perfect prose. The narrative is unique and decadent, the story painful and sweet. Even though you know it can't be a happy story, the fullness leads you through. This is as much an adult book as it is YA, and I strongly suggest just about everyone read it. Know going in that it's heavy in language, though!
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