By Yana BondarchukMon. 15 Apr. 20243min Read

10 Best the Book Thief Quotes

Explore impactful quotes from "The Book Thief," a profound novel about hope and humanity.
10 Best the Book Thief Quotes

If you appreciate narratives that delve into historical events through personal stories, you might be drawn to Markus Zusak's "The Book Thief." Below, we highlight some memorable quotes from this poignant novel.


"The Book Thief" is a novel by Markus Zusak, first published in 2005. It has received widespread acclaim and continues to be a favorite among readers worldwide. Set in Nazi Germany during World War II, the novel is narrated by Death and follows a young girl named Liesel Meminger who finds solace by stealing books and sharing them with others. Through Liesel's story, the novel explores themes of tragedy, hope, and the transformative power of literature.

"When death captures me, he will feel my fist on his face." – Liesel Meminger


This quote encapsulates Liesel's defiant spirit, capturing the essence of her character's resilience in the face of the oppressive forces of Nazi Germany. It's a bold statement of resistance from a young girl who, despite her vulnerability, remains unbowed and unbroken.

"I have hated words and I have loved them, and I hope I have made them right." – Liesel Meminger


Here, Liesel reflects on the power of words, which have shaped her life for both good and ill. It's a poignant acknowledgment of her complex relationship with language, seeing it as a tool for both oppression and liberation.

"The only thing worse than a boy who hates you: a boy that loves you." – Markus Zusak


This quote, delivered by the narrator, offers a glimpse into the tumultuous world of adolescent emotions, highlighting the intense and often confusing feelings that come with young love and hatred.

"I am haunted by humans." – Death


As the novel's unusual narrator, Death provides a unique perspective on humanity. This quote reveals a sense of weariness and perplexity at the complexities and contradictions of human nature.

"The consequence of this is that I'm always finding humans at their best and worst. I see their ugly and their beauty, and I wonder how the same thing can be both." – Death


Death marvels at the duality of humans, capable of great kindness and cruel violence. This observation underscores the thematic exploration of human nature in the novel.

"Words are life, Liesel. All those pages, they're for you to fill." – Max Vandenburg


Max encourages Liesel to see the transformative power of writing. This quote highlights the theme of literature as a sanctuary and a form of resistance against the dehumanizing forces of war.

"Sometimes people are beautiful. Not in looks. Not in what they say. Just in what they are." – Markus Zusak


This reflection, likely articulated through one of the characters, focuses on the intrinsic worth and beauty of individuals, beyond superficial attributes.

"I wanted to tell the book thief she was one of the few souls that made me wonder what it was to live." – Death


Death, often detached, finds himself curiously drawn to Liesel’s vivacity and resilience, reflecting on the vibrancy of life through her experiences.

"A small fact: You are going to die...does this worry you?" – Death


This straightforward declaration by Death serves as a chilling reminder of mortality, inviting the reader to reflect on their own life and fears.

"She was saying goodbye and she didn't even know it." – Markus Zusak


This quote captures a moment of poignant unconscious farewell, emphasizing themes of loss and the fleeting nature of moments in life, often realized only in retrospect.

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If you liked this collection of quotes, you will also like our list of classic romance novels, available to read about, download and to import to PDF Reader Pro, right here on our blog. 

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