I think that the book would appeal to teens because of the situations in which Liesel finds herself. Certainly, teens are always interested in learning more about Nazis and WWII. I also think that teens would be drawn to the book by the way it depicts Death—it certainly is a novel approach. Also, there are a number of drawings and images throughout the novel that might interest a more reluctant reader. Reluctant readers could also relate well with Liesel and her struggle with written language.
This book addresses these developmental aspects: dealing with death, surviving on your own, repentance and forgiveness, human compassion, and the hunger for education.
I think that the characters are believable. The figure of Death certainly requires the suspension of reality, but other than that, I think the book depicts normal people living in less than ideal situations. If anything, I was a bit surprised that the people of Himmel street were so hospitable and welcoming of one another after the atrocities I’ve heard about German citizens enacting against their neighbors.
I would promote the book by briefly telling about the plot line. I think it might also be interesting to select a short passage to share with teens—perhaps one from the perspective of death would entice teen readers. Or maybe showing the teens one of the pictures from the novel would interest them in reading the book.
5Q, 4P, J/S
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