Book Review – The Book Thief

“The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak

A few years ago someone told me about a movie entitled “The Book Thief” (released 2013). At the time I pictured a professional thief stealing valuable books from museums and universities. This Christmas I was given the book by the same name (published 2005). 

I was so surprised to learn that the thief is a nine-year-old girl in Nazi Germany. Having books unapproved by the party was a crime and put the girl and her foster family in danger. 

At first, I found the writing style a little disconcerting, but I quickly fell into the rhythm of this prolific award-winning  Australian author. Interestingly, the book’s narrator is death. Death is very busy during WWII as he comes for people of all ages. 

This fiction novel is listed as “Young adult literature” but I am glad I did know that or I may have missed a very good read. I loved the book and look forward to seeing the movie. 

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Gadgets

Cell Phone

My iPhone is seldom beyond my reach and I’m pretty sure you can say the same about your cell. It is like a personal secretary in your pocket. I’m not sure which feature I appreciate more, but I do know it’s not the phone part. Phone calls are necessary, but I can’t say I really enjoy them most of the time. FaceTime with my granddaughters, one away at college and the other in another country, is an exception to that, of course. 

Features

I love being able to take a high-quality photo with my phone. I like that I can carry important documents and notes. That I can enjoy my favorite music is a favorite, too. When in an unfamiliar location I love the GPS function. My car doesn’t have the fancy one built in (it’s six years old), but all I have to do is tell Siri the address and he (yes, my Siri is male and has an British accent) gets me there. Then, I say “home” and he gets back on familiar streets.

GPS

Years ago I had one of those clunky GPS gadgets where you had to manually enter each address. It worked and I depended upon it back then. One night it was stolen from my car. I found the experience not only upsetting but insulting. The thief had riffled through all my CDs and left them strewn about the car. Yes, LEFT THEM! It was during my Gosh Groben phase. 

What do you like best about your phone?

” My cell phone is my best friend. It’s my lifeline to the outside world.”                Carrie Underwood

 

Photos by Pixabay