The Book Thief

This gem, The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, was a great pleasure to read. The story, set in World War II Germany is narrated by Death. A young girl, Liesel Meminger, comes to live with foster parents, Hans and Rosa Hubermann, after the death of her young brother as her mother is taking her to the Hubermanns. At the boy's funeral, Liesel steals her first book and her foster father (Papa) teaches her to read it. She steals a few more books and is given some as gifts and she develops a passion for books and words. Meanwhile the horrors of the War are going on around her and she and her family meet many challenges. This book is beautifully written - an absolute treasure that will stay in your mind for a long time. 5/5