Recommended reading: The Book Thief

Hello Everyone,

So today I just wanted to talk about one of the best books I’ve ever read. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.

I love trying new books, and different genres just to really see what kind of books I want to read in the future. I’m really trying to always branch out on what I read, but I saw so many people recommending this particular book and it is a favourite of one my friends as well, so I decided to give it a go. I liked the initial description of the plot, and after opening the first page, I fell in love with this story. Though the plot is set during World War II, this is not the same kind of story you may have previously read regarding the Nazi’s and the war. Instead we are greeted by Death as the narrator of the story, where he introduces us to Liesel Meminger a young girl whose story begins with a train ride with her mother and brother…

The plot develops quickly, and we are introduced to the main characters surrounding Liesel and really follow her along her journey over the years during the war. I don’t want to give too much away with this story, but reading this book is truly a joy. Though the setting of World War II may suggest quite a dark plot, or sad throughout it really focuses on Liesal’s journey rather than focusing solely on what happened in World war II. Don’t get me wrong there are some very emotional moments, and yes I did cry reading this book. But strangely I wouldn’t describe this as a depressing story. Anyone who has read it may think I’m mad for saying that, as they will know a moment in the book that does take you by surprise, but even though it is emotional I could honestly read this book another 100 times.

Markus has created a book that is such a roller coaster of emotions. Each character you invest with, you fall in love with Hans and Rudy, learn to connect with Rosa and truly get a sense of the sacrifice, fear and loss that so many people experienced during the war. Liesel is so young in this book, that we get to experience all of this often from a child’s eyes, when danger is ever-present but this is also balanced with the general feelings that go with meeting new friends, starting at a school, struggling with certain skills, all of which is connected by books that Liesel finds along the way and over the years.

I highly recommend this book to everyone. In a word, it is amazing. Yes there is now a film version, but as great as that is, I suggest reading the book first, you will regret it if you don’t!

Thanks for reading. Let me know your favourite books to read 🙂

Love

xx