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The Book Thief  By  cover art

The Book Thief

By: Markus Zusak
Narrated by: Allan Corduner
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Publisher's summary

Don’t miss Bridge of Clay, Markus Zusak’s first novel since The Book Thief.

The extraordinary number-one New York Times best seller that is now a major motion picture, Markus Zusak's unforgettable story is about the ability of books to feed the soul. Nominated as one of America's best-loved novels by PBS’s The Great American Read.

When Death has a story to tell, you listen. It is 1939. Nazi Germany. The country is holding its breath. Death has never been busier, and will become busier still. Liesel Meminger is a foster girl living outside of Munich, who scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist - books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement.

In superbly crafted writing that burns with intensity, award-winning author Markus Zusak, author of I Am the Messenger, has given us one of the most enduring stories of our time.

“The kind of book that can be life-changing.” (The New York Times)

“Deserves a place on the same shelf with The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank.” (USA Today)

©2006 Markus Zusak (P)2006 Random House Inc. Listening Library, an imprint of the Random House Audio Publishing Group

Critic reviews

  • Book Sense Book of the Year Award, Children's Literature, 2007

"The astonishing characters, drawn without sentimentality, will grab readers." (Booklist)
"Zusak has created a work that deserves the attention of sophisticated teen and adult readers....An extraordinary narrative." (School Library Journal)
"The Book Thief will appeal both to sophisticated teens and adults with its engaging characters and heartbreaking story." (Bookmarks Magazine)

Featured Article: The 10 Best WWII Audiobooks for Every History Buff


World War II, although well-documented through various mediums, is the basis for a wide range of little-known stories from Europe and beyond that deserve to be heard. From firsthand accounts of soldiers on the front lines to stories of brave women behind the scenes, these are impactful stories of humans coming together in this time of global conflict. We’re sure you’ll find something captivating on our list of the best WWII audiobooks.

What listeners say about The Book Thief

Average customer ratings
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Super fantastic

Fantastic book love it. I really enjoyed the narrators. Such a story of life and death.

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Unsure at first

I was unsure of this book at first, but I’m glad I gave it a chance. Such an intriguing story and perspective on life and the human condition.

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Didn't want this one to end!

I enjoyed every minute of this book! I even took the long way to work just so u could listen longer! very heartwarming story even though it is set in Nazi Germany.

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Amazing read

Painted by words beautifully and soul touching and wrenching at the same time! Loved it!

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actually sobbing

this book made me laugh, made me curse, and made me cry. fantastic book. everyone should read this book at some point in their life.

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Incredible performance!

This is a wonderful story, and the narrator brought it to life in an uncommon way! In gratitude.

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Wonderful Writing

Uniquely descriptive writing that paints fresh visions in your mind as you read this story. The author gently guides you through any sad parts, allowing you to enjoy the multifaceted characters.
It’s become one of my favorite books!

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Outstanding!

As is usual- the book is so much better than the movie!! Having had family living in Europe during WWII and living in Germany when the wall came down, it provides an interesting perspective.

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historical fiction at its best

It was like a mystery never knew what was going to happen next but it was full of love and pain And understanding.

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Excellent story read by an exquisite reader

This might be the best book on Audible. Our Book Club agrees that Allan Corduner should read all of the books, such a gifted reader! The third person perspective helps put the time frame and characters in vivid clarity. A must read!

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