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A story narrated by Death; a story set in Nazi Germany during World War II; a story defending the inherent worth of all human beings— The Book Thief by Markus Zusak delivers on these promises and more. This novel provides readers with an incredible story, well-developed characters to grow close to, and a history lesson—all wrapped up in one book with moving scenes and poetic prose. The story, published in 2005 and considered to be a classic piece of artistic literature ever since, is set in Germany in the 1930s and 40s. In The Book Thief, Zusak examines the effects of Hitler’s horrendous acts on both the persecuted Jews in Germany and the Germans who resisted his commands.

Zusak’s characters are incredibly memorable. The main character is Liesel Meminger, a young girl who is left alone in the world after the death of her brother. She is taken to live with Hans and Rosa Hubermann, her new foster parents. Rosa is portrayed as a stern but loving woman who constantly chastises Liesel. Hans, on the other hand, is a kind man who grows close to Liesel as the story progresses. Rosa and Hans display their love for Liesel in dramatically opposite ways, but by the end of the novel, it is clear that they both care for her very much.

The story takes a dramatic turn when the Hubermanns take in a young Jew named Max. They hide him in their basement, where Liesel spends hours getting to know him, watching as he writes stories about his life as a Jew in Nazi Germany. Max is a bright light in the Hubermann’s lives. They put themselves in great danger by hiding him from the

Nazis, but they know that they are doing what is right. The Hubermanns defy Hitler in many ways throughout the story, but the choice to shelter Max from harm is the biggest and most important step that they take.

Markus Zusak’s writing style is nothing short of genius. Death—the narrator of the story— constantly interjects his own small poems into the prose, breaking up the monotony of narration with short insightful comments on the story and humanity as a whole. Death also discusses the things that are to come in the story. He spoils which characters are going to die, then moves on as if the revelation has no consequence. His references to future events keep readers on their toes, surprising them at every turn.

The Book Thief is a masterpiece. Zusak has the remarkable ability to make readers laugh one second and cry the next. This novel is incredibly touching, reminding readers of the value of human beings and the beauty of forming deep, meaningful connections with close friends and family. The book also discusses the impact that words have on a person. In the end, Liesel writes about her relationship with the English language, saying, “I have hated the words and I have loved them, and I hope I have made them right.” This quote sums up Zusak’s writing in The Book Thief. He experiments with writing styles, mixing poetry and prose until it seems natural to readers. His experiments are not always successful—some of his writing admittedly feels pretentious—but by the end of the novel, it is clear that Zusak is a master of the English language.