"The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak is a novel set during World War II, which is narrated by Death and centered around a girl named Liesel Meminger. Throughout the novel, Zusak explores various themes, however we will only focus on one, which is the power of words and storytelling. The story takes place in Nazi Germany, where Liesel discovers the power of words as she learns to read and steals books to escape the harsh reality around her. Mark Zusak rather effectively develops the theme of the power of words and storytelling by showcasing their ability to give individuals a sense of freedom in the face of adversity. Zusak depicts the negative nature of words through the Nazi propaganda that is constant in Liesel's world. When she attends a …show more content…
When Liesel steals her first book, "The Grave Digger's Handbook," she finds solace in its pages. Zusak writes, "She tore a page from the book and ripped it in half. Then a chapter. Soon, there were nothing, but scraps of words littered between her legs and all around her. The words. Why did they have to exist? Without them, there wouldn't be any of this" (Zusak 72). Liesel's act of tearing the book and her reflection on the importance of words calls attention to her deep emotional connection to them. Despite the pain and tragedy, she experiences, words become her refuge and a source of strength, allowing her to find meaning in the midst of chaos. Furthermore, Zusak explores the power of storytelling through the character of Max, a Jewish man hiding in Liesel's basement. Max creates a story for Liesel, which serves as a form of escape. Zusak writes, "It was the story of the everlasting Jew, who lived forever and died at the hands of Hitler" (Zusak 365). Max's story provides Liesel with a sense of empowerment and allows her to confront the horrors of the war. Through storytelling, she is able to process her emotions and find comfort, demonstrating the freeing effect of words. By showing Liesel's connection to books and the power of storytelling, Zusak illustrates how words can offer solace, strength, and a sense of freedom in the face of