Book Summary –
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is a powerful historical novel set in Nazi Germany during World War II, narrated by Death. The story follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl sent to live with foster parents, Hans and Rosa Hubermann, in the town of Molching. Struggling with loss and the harsh realities of war, Liesel finds comfort in books, which she often steals, and in the relationships she builds—especially with her kind foster father, her spirited friend Rudy, and Max, a Jewish man hiding in their basement. Through these connections, Liesel discovers the power of words to both heal and destroy. Blending tragedy, hope, and humanity, the novel portrays resilience and love in the face of suffering and violence.
About the Author –
Markus Zusak (born 1975) is an Australian author best known for The Book Thief, which became an international bestseller and was later adapted into a feature film. Born in Sydney to Austrian and German parents, Zusak grew up hearing stories about life in Europe during and after World War II, which inspired much of his writing. He began his career with young adult novels such as The Underdog, Fighting Ruben Wolfe, and Getting the Girl, but it was The Book Thief that brought him worldwide acclaim. Known for his unique narrative style and emotional depth, Zusak has won numerous awards, and his work continues to resonate with readers for its exploration of humanity, memory, and the transformative power of storytelling.
