Title and Author: The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak

Plot Overview: Set in Nazi Germany, Zusak explores the effects of World War Two on everyday German citizens by following the story of a young girl, Liesel Meminger. Her tale is told from the perspective of Death, a burdened and haunted character who is troubled by the war. Liesel starts her journey with a mother and brother, but she loses both, because of a word: Communist. But it is words that become her savior in the end.

Critique: The most compelling aspect of the book in the author's uniqueness. Zusak masterfully uses words to deliver an enchanting book that immediately captures your attention. He uses German words in his dialogue to add to the immersive feeling of the book. His characters are actually realistic, rather than a blend of tropes. He powerfully drives home his message, without blatantly stating it or shoving it in the reader's face. I did not have any disappointments about the book.

Cover Critique: At first I did not like it, but after reading the book, I think it depicts how one action (pushing the domino) can affect many many people although at the time, it may seem to be a simple action. (The curve in the domino path and pushing with a finger being a simple action)

From Ms. Yang: I'd recommend this book to everyone! If you were intrigued by the concept of Death as a character, you'd also like The Game of Love and Death by Martha Brockenbrough. Thanks for the review.