THE BOOK FAIR

“Death,” narrates the story of Liesel Meminger, in Molching, Germany, during WW II.   Mrs. Meminger, unable to provide for her children, makes arrangements with the Hubermann’s to care Liesel and her brother.  On the way, Werner dies of starvation.  Liesel and her mother bury her brother in a small, unknown town.

When Liesel arrives at the home of Hans and Rosa Hubermann, she can only think of her family.  Hans, sweet and gentle, coaxes a relationship with Liesel.  Liesel quickly warms to Hans; he plays the accordion for her, comforts her during nightmar es, washes her wet sheets and reads to her. 

At her brother’s graveside, Liesel stole a book entitled, “The Gravedigger’s Handbook”.  The book begins Liesel’s journey of words into literature and writing.  Hans teaches her to read.

During WW1, a fellow soldier, Erik Vandenburg saved Hans’ life.  Hans hides Max Vandenburg, Erik’s son 22 year old, from the Nazis.  Max and Liesel become close friends as they share the loss of family and the love of books, writing.  Liesel falls in love with Rudy Steiner, a neighbor and schoolmate whose hero is the American, Black athlete, Jesse Owens.

 “As Death states, there are few things the Germans love more than burning.”  During the night of book burning, Liesel manages to save a book from the pyre, “The Shoulder Shrug.”

In a world filled with terror, savagery and war, Liesel learns of love, happiness and kindness. 

 

The novel depicts the perceptions of a child during the Holocaust.  The author offers some unusual, brilliant passages and reflections of humor and humanity during a horrific period of history.