It took me some time to get into "The Book Theif" however by the middle of the book I was really enjoying what I was reading. I did however find myself having to re think about the holcaust and the history behind it. I definately think that you could enhance a students reading by providing some background knowledge on Germany during this time period. Zusak was great at painting a picture of the main characters. I felt most coneected with the book when the descriptions of the "parades" were given. I could picture these poor people walking through town, skinny due to malnutrition, and dirty from lack of care. I felt for the book theif becuase one of these was her friend. I couldn't imagine having to stand by and watch one of my own friends be mistreated and abused.