The Book Thief is a very harsh book, not shying away from the horrors of Nazi Germany. But if you can stomach it, you'll be rewarded with one of the best pieces of literature based on WWII in years. Creatively narrated by Death himself, the story follows Liesel and her friends and family dealing with the crazy world around them, and their own personal trifles. I don't want to give any spoilers, but don't consider anyone safe from death in this book. The long length may put some off, but the memorable story within is one you won't soon forget! 9.5/10
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The Book Thief
(2006, Fiction - Historical Fiction, Written by Markus Zusak)
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Is it age appropriate?
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Not age appropriate for kids under 13, age appropriate for kids over 15; suggested age 14. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Powerful teen novel about poor Germans in WWII.
updated 07.04.08
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 14–15
What to watch out for
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Violence :
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Sex :
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
About The Book Thief
Parents need to know that this book is intended for teens and adults. In addition to the swearing, omnipresent cigarettes, and devastating violence, it's written in a style that most kids under 14 will simply find too dense.
Read our full review by Matt Berman
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about the historical background, the willingness of the Germans to go along with Hitler, and the dangerous refusal of a few. They could also talk about the way these rough-edged characters care for each other and express affection, and why the author chose Death to narrate.
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Most Recent Reviews
Lives in TexasI rate this title on for age 12 and give it- Lives in FloridaI rate this title iffy for age 12 and give it
the best.
my favorite book, i've read it multiple times. i think that a mature 12 yr old could read it, and understand most of it.
- Lives in IllinoisI rate this title iffy for age 12 and give it
If you haven't already READ IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I loved this book!!! having death as the narrator was brilliant and the way it was written so it is not obvious that death was the narrator was interesting. Although many people commented on how it would have been better without so much swearing, I disagree. It gives you a better perspective on how life was for a German child, and it is in a different language half the time . If you read this book I guarantee 99% percent of you will like it. If you haven't yet, read this book!!!!!!!!!
- Lives in WashingtonI rate this title on for age 16 and give it
Stunning, will be a classic.
At age 63 I am no doubt older than the average reader of this book. Having spent time listening to older family members describe what they saw in WWII Germany, I have to say that the author's description of conditions is spot on. The story is wonderful. Having death narrate the story is pure genius, an approach I have never encountered before and I have read a lot of books in my lifetime. My daughter gave my copy to me as a birthday gift and it will remain in my library as a cherished book to be read many times. Mr. Zuzak should take heart that he has developed a writing style that is unique and mature well beyond his years. This book should be included in every high school lexicon.
- Lives in AlabamaI rate this title on for age 10 and give it
A Great Book For Anyone!
The Book Thief is a wonderful book about a girl having to live through WWII. Narrated by death, this book gives a different perspective of the world many people had to face. this book has many twists and turns that wouldn't be expected, but make it much more captivating. If you read this book I am certain you will laugh at parts and you will cry at parts, but overall this is an amazing book.
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