"The Book Thief" takes place in Nazi Germany. This plays a big part of the story because of what was going on in Germany at the time of World War II. Although this was the larger setting, Leisel's world revolves around Himmel street. Throughout the book, a map of Himmel street is drawn out in the reader's mind. From Frau Diller's to the trees by the river, to Grand Strausse, back to the basement at 33 Himmel st., Leisel guides the reader around the town. I think that the most important place in this book is the basement of the Huberman's house. The main reason is because of Max, but also because of how many words the walls hold. Words mean everything to Leisel, and although most of the words on the wall are covered by paint and more words, the layers show how the shy, quiet girl became an avid reader and eventually, a book thief.
Although Max may have hated the basement, the reader learns so much about him and Leisel through it. His paintings on the walls and his fighting with Hitler reveal how he kept himself sane, although these things my seem insane at first. It might have been better for Max to be in the basement because he might have lost his mind if he knew what was going on in the outside world. Especially since he couldn't leave the house anyway. The basement was the most significant setting in this book.
~Eliza
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I like how you mention the different parts of town, then describe the basement. I haven't gotten to the part where Max paints the walls yet. It already seems significant to me, though. The basement where Liesel learns Max's story from Hans.
ReplyDeleteI really like what you aid about how "although most of the words on the wall are covered by paint and more words, the layers show how the shy, quiet girl became an avid reader and eventually, a book thief." I completely agree that learning to read is what is bringing out Liesel's true personality, and I think that the more she learns the more confident she will become.
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