The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

The Book Thief

Markus Zusak

Death is the messenger - and the narrator of this novel set in Nazi Germany. The Grim Reaper tells his tale with a whimsical lightness of touch, but the matter of fact tone makes for a chilling read nonetheless. Will appeal to young adults as well as mature readers, but whatever your perspective, be prepared to be moved to tears at this tragic, yet ultimately life-affirming story.

Extract
I am in all truthfulness attempting to be cheerful about this whole topic, though most people find themselves hindered in believing me, no matter my protestations. Please, trust me. I most definitely can be cheerful. I can be amiable. Agreeable. Affable. And that's only the As. Just don't ask me to be nice. Nice has nothing to do with me.
Parallels
  • Slaughterhouse 5 by Kurt Vonnegut
  • The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards