Tolog Review: The Book Thief

The Book Thief
by Markus Zusak 
reviewed by Nina Keshishian

One of my favorite books that I have ever read is The Book Thief, written by Markus Zusak. This fiction, historical drama is based on the Holocaust and the traumatic events that occurred during this time. The main character Liesel Meminger is a prime example of children during this time and how they had to deal with living their everyday lives during the Holocaust. Through making friends and adjusting to her new family Liesel was able to grow and mature as a strong young woman who was always wise beyond her years. Liesel’s abiding relationships with her foster father Hans, family friend Max Vandenburg, and best friend Rudy Steiner are some of the most important aspects of the novel. Her father showed her what real family is like and how important one person can be to her. Her family friend Max showed her how much one person can impact and change your life. Max Vandenburg was a jew who was secretly staying in the basement of the Memingers, who were German. Liesel’s father owed Max a favor so he offered to let him stay with his family since he needed to hide from the Nazis during the Holocaust. Max exposed young Liesel to the dangers of the world and the challenges of life. He showed her that even good people are sometimes punished for no reason and that life is not always easy. Her best friend Rudy showed her what true love was at a young age and what true friendship looks like. Although it took her time to realize it, Liesel was truly in love with Rudy. He showed her what love and friendship was and she was forever thankful for that. From helping Liesel steal books, to standing up for her, Rudy was always there to help Liesel with anything and everything she needed. Rudy and Liesel’s friendship was my favorite part about this book because of how close they were and how beautiful it was. This novel showed me what the Holocaust was like and how hard life was for those living in it. Throughout this novel I got to watch Liesel embark on her journey of growing up and gaining wisdom and maturity. I fell in love with some characters and hated others. It was an amazing book that I would recommend to everyone teens and to those who would like to read something that is touching but also quite sad.