The Book Thief – Markus Zusak

Synopsis:

Review:

Those who know me know that I typically read a lot of crime/mystery/thrillers, contemporary fiction and ‘women’s literature’. I wasn’t sure what I’d make of this one.
It’s one of those books that has been recommended to me hundreds of times over and I was never sure if it was really for me. However I put it on my 21 books in 2021 pile and promised to try it this year. Even when I posted to say I was picking it up I was bombarded with messages saying it was their all time favourite book etc so I quickly felt the pressure to like it!

The first couple of chapters I wasn’t too sure but by the time I got to about 50 pages in I was hooked completely and wanted to devour ever last paragraph learning about Liesel.

I loved the story between her and her foster father, I found it unexpected and truly touching.

I enjoyed the historic references and for me it was enough as I’m not a massive historical fiction buff, so this for me was a really good balance between the fiction story and the history element.

I really enjoyed the Mini synopsis teasers of the topics at the beginning of the chapters/parts and the broken up translations, explanations and snippets of information. It really breaks up the story and in some cases managed to add an element of gentle humour.

I absolutely loved how the book was narrated and the angle at which it was told. It isn’t a book you read quickly but one that you devour slowly and carefully. The story truly touched me and I completely understand why I had received such high praise. I will now join the hoards of people who will recommend this book to everyone.

A huge 5/5 stars from me