The Book Thief Read-Along: Parts 1-3

The Book Thief reread along is hosted by Suey, Kathy, and Kami. If you want to join in the fun, you can sign up here.

We read Parts 1 through 3 from September 1 until September 10. Here are the discussion questions:

1. What’s your first impression of Death as a character/narrator?
2. What’s your first impression of the unique writing style?
3. Which character stands out to you the most so far and why?
4. What do you think the author is trying to say about the power of words?
5. How do you feel about all the foreshadowing that’s going on?
6. Also, how do you feel about all that German swearing?!
7. What do you think about the relationship between Hans and Rosa?
8. What do you think about the relationship between Rudy and Liesel?
9. What are your feelings on the politics of the time that we’ve seen so far?
10. What images and/or symbols stand out for you in this story so far?

My Answers

1. I’m a little perplexed by Death. I’m not sure what his motives are or if he even has motives at this point. He seems to be really attracted to Liesel Meminger and I’m not sure why he chose her yet.
2. I love it! It’s so descriptive and rich. I can’t find fault with it in any way.
3. Hans Hubermann stands out the most. He seems like an Atticus Finch or Albus Dumbledore type character to me and I love Atticus and Dumbledore, so I think I’ll end up loving him by the end of the book.
4. Look at what Hitler did with his words. He inspired almost an entire nation to hate and despise the Jews, to think of them as less than human. So, if Hitler’s words can inspire hatred, then what can good words inspire? Love, strength, and character just to name a few things. I think that’s what captivates me so much about WWII stories. It was such a horrible time in our world’s history. So many people were killed or displaced. Yet, because people have written and shared their stories, we’ve also been privy to the light in an otherwise dark world.
5. At first, I kind of thought it was annoying. But, now, I kind of like it. It helps keep the story moving forward and tie all the pieces together.
6. I actually think it’s funny.
7. It’s very interesting. At this point, I’m not sure how I feel about Rosa. She seems kind of bitchy, for lack of a better word. And, does she really love her family? Is this just how she deals with what’s going on around her? Or, is she really that mean?
8. I think it’s cute and I wonder if it’ll blossom into love. I’m also glad they have each other to help one another deal with what’s going on around them.
9. It fascinates me that people actually bought into Hitler’s words. They’re so full of hate. How could anyone not see through that? Yes, I know people were scared. But, how did he rise to power? Why didn’t people stop him before he was powerful and could basically do whatever he wanted to half the world?
10. Colors. I love that Death sees colors. I’ve never really associated colors with feelings before, except the obvious ones like blue and red. It’s helping me see things in a different light.