It's a book that anyone keen on something different and somewhat astonishing should attempt. The author, Markus Zusak, has put together a remarkable story -- written with emotional detail in such a way that it isn't just another account of Nazi Germany, but a character-driven homage to kindness and cruelty as well as life, death, and books. As put by a NY Times reviewer: "It will be widely read and admired because it tells a story in which books become treasures. And because there's no arguing with a sentiment like that."
Narrated by Death, the tone is ironic yet tender, and very frank -- just like Death himself:
"On many counts, taking a boy like Rudy was robbery-- so much life, so much to live for -- yet somehow, I'm certain he would have loved to see the frightening rubble and the swelling of the sky on the night he passed away. He'd have cried and turned and smiled if only he could have seen the book thief on her hands and knees, next to his decimated body. He'd have been glad to witness her kissing his dusty bomb-hit lips.
Yes, I know it.In the darkness of my dark-beating hear, I know. He'd have loved it, all right.You see?Even death has a heart."
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