In the Historical Fiction novel, The Book Thief, author Markus Zusak illustrates the importance of words and friendship during the Nazi rule in Germany. The first spark of friendship between Hans and Liesel ignites when they learn to read and write together. Because of Liesel's ability to read, Max and Liesel become instant friends. The importance of words and the kinship that comes with proves relevant throughout the entire story. The author uses the relationship of Hans and Liesel to demonstrate how reading and writing can bloom into a thriving friendship and the relationship of Liesel and Max to demonstrate how words can provide the ability to survive in a crisis.
Upon Liesel’s arrival to Himmel Street, she has no desire to meet Hans: her new Papa. Hans notices her stolen copy of The Gravedigger's Handbook and offers to teach her how to read and write. From then on, a lively friendship presents itself as “Liesel made her way down to the basement. …show more content…
The two relationships depend on each other because without Hans teaching Liesel how to read, Liesel would not be able to become friends with Max, and without Max’s relationship with Hans, Max would never meet Liesel. Together, Max, Hans, and Liesel bonded in the cold basement and they “could not contain the small snatches of laughter… They were only humans, playing in the snow.” (312). The friendships make Max feel at home, gives Liesel a sense of belonging, and eases the anxiety of Hans caused by the hiding Jew.
The relationship of Hans and Liesel blooms into a thriving friendship, and the relationship of Liesel and Max provides the ability to survive in a crisis. Without words, there would be little connection between Max, Liesel, and Hans. The novel ultimately proves the saving power of words and of reading and is the story of friendship, love, survival, grief, and