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The Book Thief

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005

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Markus Zusak

The Book Thief

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

608

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Molching, Germany • 1940s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

730L

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Super Short Summary

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, set in Nazi Germany and narrated by Death, follows Liesel Meminger, a young orphan with a passion for books, who steals them and finds solace in words amidst the horrors of World War II. As she forges relationships, especially with her foster parents and a hidden Jewish man, she discovers the profound impact words can have, culminating in her writing her own story. The novel addresses wartime atrocities and loss.

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Mysterious

Dark

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.5

2,720,215 ratings

86%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is lauded for its compelling narrative and innovative use of Death as the narrator, which adds depth to the storytelling. The prose is poetic and vivid, evoking strong emotional responses. However, some find the pacing slow and the plot somewhat predictable. Overall, it is a poignant and memorable read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Book Thief?

Readers who enjoy emotionally powerful narratives, historical settings, and poignant character development will appreciate The Book Thief. Similar in appeal to The Boy in the Striped Pajamas and All the Light We Cannot See, it attracts those who are passionate about World War II stories and profound human experiences.

4.5

2,720,215 ratings

86%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

608

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Molching, Germany • 1940s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

730L

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