The Book Thief

The Book Thief
by Markus Zusak

Published: 2007 Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf
Paperback: 576 pages ISBN: 0375842209

Genre: Historical fiction
Recommended for children ages 12+ and grades 7-12.

Plot Summary:
The Book Thief is a Holocaust story set in Germany. A young foster child named Liesel lives outside of Munich with an older man and woman. Her foster father, Hans Hubermann, helps teach Liesel to read and through her relationship with him she learns the joy of reading and, subsequently, the joy of stealing books. The book is an incredibly realistic portrayal of what Nazi Germany was like for people who were not in concentration camps. Liesel is an endearing protagonist who develops close relationships with three other characters who all touch the reader's heart in various ways. The Book Thief is a sad story that really paints a vivid picture of everyday life in Nazi Germany.

Evaluation:
This is a unique book that educates the reader about Nazi Germany for those not in concentration camps. It provides a different perspective for the time frame and the characters are not easily forgettable. The narrator of the book is not revealed until the end and this creates an element of intrigue that helps the reader stay engaged. In 2013 the book was made into a film which could also be used to help reluctant/low-level readers. The book would fit very well into a Holocaust unit. It is a moving story, although it is quite long and can be a little slow, that many readers will greatly enjoy.

Content Area:
English
Social Science (Holocaust, WWII)

Content Area Standards for Social Science:

CA Common Core State Standards
CCSS Grades 6-8 Reading Standards for Literacy in Science and Technical Subjects
Determine the central ideas or conclusions of a text; provide an accurate summary of the text distinct from prior knowledge or opinions.

CA Social Science Standards
CA Social Science Standard 10.85
Analyze the Nazi policy of pursuing racial purity, especially against the EuropeanJews; its transformation into the Final Solution; and the Holocaust that resulted in themurder of six million Jewish civilians.

Links:

Official Movie Website

Random House Feature on Zusak

Variety of Lesson Plan Links/Info