good book...

This is a great book. The subject is sad and miserable, yes, but the story is told in such a clever way that it doesn't feel like "another book about the Holocaust."

I love Liesel. And I love Hans Hubermann. Actually, I love all of the characters. I love that Liesel steals books and keeps them as her prize possessions--words are all she'll have in the end.

I'm almost done with the book and so I don't want to say too much, but I really hope Max makes it. It's been fun to read page after page and "watch" as Liesel and Max's relationship has transpired. I'm not sure what is going to happen to Rudy, but we are told early on that he dies. Her relationship with him is fun and a good reminder that even during the chaos and misery of war time, kids will still be kids. I love when she says, "The only thing worse than a boy who hates you is a boy who loves you."

I'm also touched by Rosa Hubermann's softening heart. I was worried about her in the beginning, but it's clear that she loves Liesel and Hans--enough to risk her own life by keeping Max in the basement.

I hope everyone else is enjoying the book as much as I am.