The Book Thief

by Markus Zusak

No matter how many times she was told that she was loved, there was no recognition that the proof was in the abandonment. Nothing changed the fact that she was a lost, skinny child in another foreign place, with more foreign people. Alone.

Trust was accumulated quickly, due primarily to the brute strength of the man’s gentleness, his thereness.

A DEFINITION NOT FOUND IN THE DICTIONARY Not-leaving: An act of trust and love, often deciphered by children.

THE BOOK’S MEANING 1. The last time she saw her brother. 2. The last time she saw her mother.

‘Well promise me one thing, Liesel. If I die anytime soon, you make sure they bury me right.’ She nodded, with great sincerity. ‘No skipping Chapter Six, or Step Four in Chapter Nine.’ He laughed, as did the bed-wetter. ‘Well I’m glad that’s settled. We can get on with it now.’

Whatever the reason, they were huddled amongst the ashes, shaken. Survivors. ‘Three books.’ Liesel spoke softly

I do not carry a sickle or scythe. I only wear a hooded black robe when it’s cold. And I don’t have those skull-like facial features you seem to enjoy pinning on me from a distance. You want to know what I truly look like? I’ll help you out. Find yourself a mirror while I continue.