The Book Thief Read Along Discussion Two: Parts 4-6

Yesterday Kami posted these questions for discussion on parts 4 through 6 of our Book Thief Read Along. Here are my answers!

1. What emotions have you felt while reading? Are they strong emotions?

worry, frustration, sadness, beauty, love, anger, dread, fear, determination, etc. All strong, yes. Very strong.

2. Several characters mention similarities between Max and Liesel. What similarities have you noticed, and why do you think the author made these characters relate to each other?

They are both refugees, having to leave their homes and families and trust in other people. They are both lonely and sad and smart and scared and hopeful.

3. What do you think of The Standover Man aka the book Max wrote for Liesel.

Ah, sad and awesome and powerful! It really makes you feel what Max must be feeling.... and such a simple way. That's what I love about this book, powerful things said simply.

4. How do you feel about knowing who is going to die in the end and what are some of your predictions?

Well, it causes a major sense of dread. And hope, that maybe Death is wrong somehow and something else will REALLY happen, not the thing predicted.

5. What do you think of Rudy's rebellious attitude? 

He is a crazy boy and desperate to have some control over anything in his life.

6. Is Rosa growing on you?

Yes, of course! She not as bad as she seems. Deep inside, she is as loving as Hans I think.

7. What do you think of the relationship between Max and Liesel?

Like brother and sister. Whoever thought they should get together is crazy I think.

8. Why do you think Liesel is so determined to steal from the Mayor's library?

It gives her a little bit of control over her life too. And revenge against the wife who somehow makes Liesel mad in her submitting to the horrors of life and giving up on her fighting spirit.

9. What really stands out to you in the story and why?

They thing that always stands out to me is the powerful word manipulation that makes the images we are reading about so very strong in our minds. The writing is amazing and because of the deep subject matter, the two together make this the brilliant book that it is.

10. If you were in Hans' position, would you have helped/hid Max?

I hope to think so. I don't know, it's hard to know what you would do, especially if you have your own family to project. But yes, I really would hope so.


I've fallen a little behind in my reading and need to catch up before it's too late! Loving the re-read though!

Be sure to join us for a Book Thief chat tonight at 7 pm Mountain time! Hashtag #bookthief.