The Book Thief Death and Chocolate pg 3
The Book Thief
Death and Chocolate – pg. 3 The Text Says… Death He is introducing himself. He is talking about colors. The leftover humans – he can’t stand to look at them. A story about a girl… Theivery I Say… It’s weird that the story is being told by Death. What do the colors mean? Why does he not want to look at the survivors? Does he feel guilty? What will the story be about?
Beside the Railway Line pg. 6 The Text Says… White is a color. Someone died on or near a train. A mother and her daughter – and a corpse. Two guards carried the corpse to the train. Death was interested in the girl. I Say… White – Color of snow – What does it symbolize? Who died? Why did the author use the phrase – “white – snow sky who stood at the window? ” “The world was sagging now…”
The Eclipse pg. 9 I Say… The Text Says… The second time Death sees the Book Thief. A plane had crashed. She and a boy had arrived. It was years after the first time Death saw her. The boy had taken a teddy bear out of a tool box and placed it next to the dying pilot. BLACK – What does the black mean? He recognized the Book Thief. What had happened to the pilot? Why was she and the boy there? Death took the soul of the pilot. He speaks about eclipses when people die. What do the eclipses mean?
The Flag pg. 12 The Text Says… The third time Death saw the Book Thief. Bombs had dropped on a German town. She was in the midst of the rubble. She howled. She dropped her most precious item – her book. Death picked her book up and read through it several times throughout the years. Here is her story… I say… RED– What does the red mean? Obviously it is a war. Her town was struck. She was devastated. Wanted to seek sanctuary. It’s interesting that Death picked her book up. Three colors – together RED – WHITE - BLACK He will be telling her story.
Part One the grave digger’s handbook
Arrival on Himmel Street pg. 19 The text says… I say… Death thinks about how things got to the time he saw her last – RED. 1939 – January She dreams about Hitler. He smiles at her. Why were there so many people on the train? Where were they going? She isn’t scared or fearful of Hitler. Liesel steals her first book – she doesn’t know how to read and doesn’t know what it says. We see the story of how her brother died in the train. Liesel is distraught. Ironic that she is going to a street named “Heaven” street after leaving her mother. They bury her brother in a nearby cemetery. Liesel doesn’t want to leave him. Why did her mother send her away? They were Someone drops a book in the snow – Liesel obviously poor. She had never been in a car. steals it. Hans seems nice. He got her out of the car. She is taken to foster parents on Himmel street – the Hubermans. Rosa seems very abrupt. Hans and Rosa – Rosa has a harsh way. Liesel has trouble getting out of the car. Funny, yet appropriate, that her first book to steal, or even perhaps to own is A Grave Digger’s Handbook.
Growing up a Saumensch pg. 30 The Text Says… We have a small preview of what will come in the story. Fourteen books stolen. She will write her own story. Max Vandenburg. Her hair was German blond. She had dangerous eyes – brown eyes. Her father was a Communist. She didn’t know him. She felt abandoned by her mother. Description of the Hubermann’s house. Hans was nice – Rosa was not. She did love Liesel, but she showed it with difficulty. Liesel wouldn’t take a bath. Hans taught her how to roll cigarettes. She will call the Hubermanns Mama and Papa. I say… Brown eyes were dangerous – the German ideal was blond hair, blue eyes. The “perfect race. ” Communism was not allowed in Germany at that time. The Hubermanns seem poor too. Maybe the difference is, they’re not Communists. Rosa’s character seems harsh, but she seems to want what’s best for Liesel. Hans seems delightfully nice.
The Woman with the Iron Fist – pg. 36 The Text Says… A picture of Himmel Street – life Liesel had nightmares about her brother. Hans would come in and comfort her. Hans’s accordian was played often. And he played it at night for money. I say… They all seem very poor. Hans is such a nice man. “the brute strength of the man’s gentleness” – contrast. His gentleness was overwhelming. School – she was in a younger grade, because she didn’t know how to read. School must have been miserable. I would have hated to have been with younger kids because I couldn’t read. Liesel was 10, and in Hitler Youth. What is Hitler Youth? Why a uniform? Rosa griped about everything and everybody. She delivered washing and griped about everyone. Rosa has such a gruff exterior – I wonder if she’s more gentle under it all. The neighbor spits on the door when she walks by. Liesel goes out to clean it and looks at the sky. Liesel probably stares up at the sky to escape her new reality. I’m sure she gets overwhelmed by Rosa’s mouth.
The Kiss – pg. 46 The Text Says. . An introduction to the people on Himmel street. Rudy will become Liesel’s best friend and partner in crime. The soccer game. Rudy Frau Diller’s shop The Road of Yellow stars Pfiffikus – taunting him and his verbal abuse Rudy and Liesel race – he wants a kiss – it’s a tie. I Say… The characters of Himmel street seem very colorful. Frau Diller is a huge Hitler supporter. She seems scary. The Yellow Stars are Jews. “Not humans, but shapes. ” They didn’t see them as fellow humans. Jews were forced to wear yellow stars on their clothing. Pfiffikus seems extremely foul. The race – I think Rudy and Liesel will get along well.
The Jesse Owens Incident pg. 56 The Text Says…. Rudy is 6 years old. Jesse Owens has just won the gold medal. He decides to pretend he is Jesse Owens He paints himself black with coal and goes to the local track and runs. His dad catches him and tries to explain why he can’t want to be black. Contradictory Politics of Alex Steiner I say…. 1936 Berlin Olympics Nazis see blacks as - sub-human – beneath humans. It’s not that Rudy wants to be black, he just wants to be fast. He’s too young for hate. He just sees someone fast and doesn’t care about the rest. Alex Steiner doesn’t hate Jews but he is in the Nazi party. He also knows, down deep that something is wrong, he just decides not to think about it too much.
The Smell of Friendship pg. 69 The Text Says… I Say… What is the change that has taken place? What was on his mind? We see some foreshadowing – “That story would arrive…” Papa changes Mama’s plans They travel to the River to spend the afternoon. “There had been a change in What the “Smell of him” do you think Papa creates safe places for Liesel Friendship” means? Rereadtothe learn. last Their studies – River and paragraph of page 72. Basement Freedom to paint on the walls. Painting the walls The Smell of Friendship She probably has never done anything like that before. Not much triggers memories like smells.
The. Why Heavyweight Champion of begun the School-Yard pg. 73 do you think Liesel had to disrupt the Text Says… I say… younger class? World War II begins – with the invasion of Poland the by Germany. Reread bottom half Hitler’s act of invading Poland sends a the world. of pageripple 77. around How does the author’s language convey. Why how Liesel is feeling at does Liesel act up? Is she afraid of that point? Give examples. looking stupid? Does she act bad so she Liesel begins to act up in school. Progress test at school. The teacher skips Liesel – Rudy points it Why out. did Liesel begin Liesel goes up and tries – recites “The Gravedigger’s Guide. ” won’t look stupid? Or is she merely misunderstood? to beat Tommy Muller? Liesel wants to show well she has improved but gets stuck – the only thing “Why did he have to die? ”she What was Liesel talking can think to do is recite the book she about on page 80? learned at home. During a break Liesel is taunted. It doesn’t go so well for the boy who taunts her. All her pent up frustration comes boiling Why did Rudy just stand by? And out why was that at several boys. the She gets in big trouble. thing to do at that time? perfect She lets her guard down with Rudy and Liesel starts to cry. Rudy just waits. cries. Why did her brother have to die?
Part Two The shoulder shrug
A Girl Made of Darkness pg. 83 The Text Says… I say… Liesel’s second stolen book This seems to be a chapter of foreshadowing things to come. Anti-Semitism Overzealous Leader Nation of hate-fed bigots Germans love to burn things. “The Shoulder Shrug” A girl made of darkness - anger Descriptive words for Nazi Germany. Hate-fed – propaganda Germany had a history of burning books, shops, synagogues, etc. The name of the second book Why did she turn so dark? She seems like such a nice girl. What could make her so angry?
The Joy of Cigarettes pg. 85 The Text Says… I Say… She is finding contentment. She loves her Papa and even her Mama “She was a girl with a mountain to climb. ” pg. 86 – She and Hans finish “The Grave Digger’s “A girl with a mountain to climb” – she had a What does this mean? Whathuge was mountain? task her ahead of her. She made it to. Do the Handbook. ” top – finished the book. you think she has more than one mountain? What Perhaps this was a large part in healing over Her progress at school. could they be? her brother’s death. A Christmas present – 2 new books “Faust the Dog” “The Lighthouse” Her contentment is finding its way to school. “It’s much easier, she realized, Shetois thrilled be on verge withthe her new books. of something than to actually it. ”It’spg. Nazis hatebe gypsies. ironic 87 that he would A question – How did you pay for these trade cigarettes for books with a gypsy. This What doesbooks? this quote mean? Do you think it’s true? shows that Hans truly isn’t a Nazi. By trading cigarettes to a gypsy Mama gets some eggs We see a small glimpse of Mama being happy.
The Town Walker pg. 91 The Text Says… I Say… Why did Liesel swing the bag once she was out ofthings What is the rot? Perhaps “the rot” Mama’s sight? are going to get bad. The first house to cancel service from Rosa Hubermann. people will take pity “Instead of asking him what. Rosa was thinks wrong, Liesel began on ignore Liesel and not fire her. writing immediately, choosing to the sense of Liesel now has to deliver and pick foreboding that was quick to accumulate inside her. ” up the laundry. She misses her mom and loves her. pg. 95 Why does Liesel have a She sense of foreboding when wants to tell her about how Writing at school write lettersto her real mother? she– is writing things are going. Liesel decides to write to her real mom. When Mama was asking Hans about Liesel’s mom, her Rosa seems to genuinely care voice was calm and caring. What does that tell you The conversation between Hans about Liesel. What has happened about Liesel? and Rosa her? Why did it worry to her mother? Liesel’s dad is a Communist.
Dead Letters pg. 97 I Say… The Text Says… The title of the chapter suggests that there will be no reply to Liesel’s letters. A brief flash-forward – four years Papa visits with her about the letters. We see that she indeed, never got a response to her letters. What was Liesel’s second intensions the are With Watschen another customer gone, sure to build, especially with Mama. kitchen? She checks the mailbox for a reply for a couple of months. Another customer drops laundry service. Liesel gives the gift of contacting her real mother. One last chance – surely this will work! Liesel’s birthday – no gift. Why was that one so much worse than She decides to give herself a gift. Mama finds out and gives Liesel a Watschen. Rosa’s? But then she cries and says she is sorry – Mama finds out about the money. Liesel gets two very large Watchens. She lies on the ground and realizes she will never see her mother again. probably because Liesel’s mother is gone. Her “second watschen” is when she realizes her mother is gone. She lies on the ground and everything seems hopeless.
Hitler’s Birthday, 1940 pg. 101 I Say… The Text Says… National holiday – You Must display your flag and your loyalty. Celebration Why preparation Hitler’s birthday. wasfornot being able to find their flag an “The Road of Yellow stars – awaiting renovation – emergency? They cannot find their flag. Behind accordion. Ghetto? What this sentence Junior had the Hans Jr. and does Trudy visit – like at Christmas mean? “Hans for Hans vs. Nazis? Hans Jr. and Papa do NOT get along. They have eyesdifferent of hispolitical fatherviews. and the height. The silver in his eyes, Hans Jr. is a die-hard Nazi. He is the 90%. Hans The flag hid behind the accordion – is this symbolic used to paint Jew’s homes. Thisbeen was a “mistake” however, wasn’t warm, like Papa’s – they’d in Jr. ’s view. Hans hasn’t joined the Nazi party yet. Fuhrered. ” –pg. 103 Hans Jr. sees Liesel reading and says she should be reading Mein Kampf – influential book by Hitler – written while he was in prison. Outlines all his plans for Germany. “take out the garbage” – groups the Nazis didn’t approve of? Why wasn’t Hans allowed in the Nazi Party yet? Hans and Hans Jr. argue – Hans Jr. leaves mad. Foreshadowing about Stalingrad. Do you think Hans is a coward? or why not? “tragically Why in Stalingrad” – Does Hans Jr. die there? Liesel asked Hans about what happened. She has to go to the celebration – Hitler Youth. We see foreshadowing – “a book will be stolen” Will Liesel steal her second book?
100 Percent Pure German Sweat pg. 108 I Say… The Text Says… is proud as she marches with On page 109, a “mound of. Liesel guilt” is mentioned in a sense of purpose. Parade marches through town. the last paragraph of that page. What is that At the end they are dispersed. She hates to see books burned because referring to and why is it considered a mound of she loves them but she has to look and They start the burning. guilt? see. Speech – Communism is mentioned as inferior. The word Communism hits her because of her dad and perhaps her mother. She begins to see the beast. In the beginning of the chapter Liesel’s chest Liesel beginsswelled to try to getwith out of the pride, what changed? crowd. She stops seeing people, just uniforms and signs. “A single word leaned against the girl. ” pg. 113. She and Ludwig share apologies – she What does that mean? helps Why did the author him. She is greatly bothered by the They finally sit by a church. word Communism – but uses him as a phrase it like that? She tries to escape and sees Ludwig Schmeikl. He is injured. distraction.
Questions • Look at the bottom of page 109. What does “mound of guilt” refer to? Why is that metaphor used? • Look at page 113. What does the phrase, “a single word leaned against the girl” mean? Why does that have significance?
The Gates of Thievery pg. 114 The Text Says… Liesel sits and looks over the remains. I say… She is stunned by the Communist remarks. findseverything her after searching where “Everything was sad. ” pg. 114 Hans Was sad toshe should have been. Hans finds her sitting on the steps of the everyone there or just Liesel? Why? church. He asks her what is wrong. She slowing comes to understand what Nazis She comes to the realization that it’s Hitler and Hitler really are. She hates Hitler for what SMALL ADDITION – pg. 115 that is they, they talk. Aabout. She says she he did to her parents. him. significance of this “math problem? ” Whathates is the Hans slaps her because she cannot say that Hans slaps Liesel. aloud. She will be taken away and he loves her. Why did Hans slap Liesel when it’s clear that he She is shocked and greatly hurt by this. This is the most painful thing that could doesn’t care for Hitler either? He tells her never to say that again. happen to her. Makes her “Heil Hitler” He “Heil feels sorry, but feels it was necessary. Why did he make her Hitler? ” After a while they make amends. Makes her be a “good German” The gates of thievery. She is on the cusp of becoming a thief – will
Book of Fire pg. 118 The Text Says… I say… Liesel is still affected by what has happened. She doesn’t see people, just uniforms still. Hans and Liesel start to walk back home. Hans gets stopped by someone he knows. She is drawn to the pile of books. It’s a magnet to her. She sees the “survivors” She gets/saves a book. Perhaps this is her going against Hitler, the man who broke her family. It’s smoking. She puts it in her shirt. It starts to get hot and burn her. Who is it she sees in the shadows? Is it a Nazi? Probably not because she would have been punished. It seems like someone she knows. Hans and she head home. but the book is burning her. “Liesel wandered toward the mountain of ash. It sat like a magnet, like a freak. Irresistible to the Liesel stays near for a moment, but she is drawnsimilar to the burned eyes, topile. the road of yellow stars. ” pg. 119 She sees books that survived. What do these two sentences mean? To what is She is paralyzed with fear when she thinks she is caught. She can’t move. it referring? She reaches down and grabs a book. Make a prediction – She thinks she is caught. looks and Who. Shesaw Liesel take the book? sees that someone has seen her from the What will. She’s happen? shadows. trying to pretend nothing is wrong –
Part Three mein kampf pg. 123
The Way Home pg. 125 The Text Says… Mein Kampf I Say… Foreshadowing – Mein Kampf Make a prediction: The book – The Shoulder Shrug – emerges The book is too hot to hide – she would have shown him eventually. What was Hans thinking about? Hans asks about the book She thinks he is about to be angry – he Liesel is deepto in thought What will the secret be, Hans instead may ask keep? – it is Hans has a revelation obvious he comes up with an idea. Was Mein Kampf for Liesel? If so, why? If not, who? He asked Liesel to keep a secret. Liesel would do anything Hans asked. “We’ll give on him Thenwould we come for him. this And Hans goes to check theseven status months. of his Why he go purchase book? Nazi Party membership and clearly oh, purchases how we come. ”Hepg. 128 hates the Nazi Party Mein Kampf. What does that mean? What does this mean? Will he die in seven “We will come for him in seven months” months? Who is “we”?
The Mayor’s Library pg. 129 The Text Says… Who had you said had seen Liesel steal. I Say… the book? Liesel is worried about who had seen her. Nothing is right with Liesel until she gets She can’t stop thinking about it. thislanguage handled. Will get in 133 trouble? Find an example of figurative onshepage or 134. down The mayor’s wife Write had seenither. She in quotes. Explain what it Avoidance can only work for so long. avoided the house for some time. means and why the author used that language. She finally had to go. Rudy went with her. Does Rudy know about the books? What is the Mayor’s wife’s secret? Why is she being to Liesel? wife? She could What do you think is wrong with thenice mayor’s The Mayor’s wife invited her in. She had potentially get in trouble if she helps a library in her house. someone who steals a book out of the fire. What does “The mayor’s wife bruised herself again. ” Liesel was amazed. Finally left. Could this be the beginning of a mean? Pg. 137 Liesel came back to thank her. relationship between the two of them?
Enter the Struggler pg. 138 The Text Says… I Say… Not following the same story. We are in a secret room. A Jew. Where is this Jew in hiding? What book do you think used page not a Who. Max is helping him? on It’s obviously Jew, or the man would be in hiding too. 140? The man is being quiet. A man in a small place – hiding – not eating. His name is Max. Someone is helping him. He gives Max a fake ID, a book, and some food. It’s so quiet in his small space every sound is amplified. What connection could there be between the He isand trying. Max? to ration food. It’s obvious Hans Huberman he’s been there a long time, who knows He is alone again. Every sound is loud. how much longer he’ll be there. What do you think could with. Hubermann? Max? What Why ishappen he begging Hans He eats some of his food – saving some for later. He looks at the book and begs “Please” to Hans Hubermann. does Hans have to do with a hidden Jew? Is Hans going to rescue him or help him?
The Attributes of Summer pg. 142 The Text Says… I Say… Liesel’s summer activities: 1. She understands why Germany Why is it ironic that Lieseldoesn’t thinks The Shoulder like that book – it makes the 1. The Shoulder Shrug is excellent? main character (a Jew) look like a good She liked the book. guy. 2. Reading at the Mayor’s wife’s house. She found out a secret about the Mayor’s wife. She lost her son. She lived in her misery. 2. The Mayor’s wife lets her read in her home. They develop a comfort with one another. She finds out why Ilsa is sad – her son died. In which event did the mayor’s wife’s son die? 3. Soccer Why were the words, “I’m sorry, ” so giant and 3. They continue to play soccer. Liesel is trying to make Tommy more comfortable with her. clumsy? Pg. 146 4. Liesel and Rudy’s hunger takes over 4. More stealing. Liesel and Rudy get in with a group of kids that are stealing food. and they start stealing with a group of kids. They are stealing food.
The Aryan Shopkeeper pg. 154 I Say… The Text Says… We see how hard-core Frau Diller is with the Nazis. Liesel and Rudy had gone into hadbought been Frau“The Diller’sday shop and a a great one, and Nazi Times are getting tougher, even for piece. Germany of candy withwas a found a coin. wondrous place. ” pg. 156 Frau Diller. Now one coin only buys one piece of candy. Liesel They were sharing the hard candy. and Rudy were expecting more. Explain this sentence – why was it used? “The day had been a great one, and Nazi Germany was a wondrous place. ” This is a perfect day for the two friends. Not a care in the world. It seems ominous as to things to come. The light before the dark.
The Struggler, Continued pg. 157 The Text Says… Max is traveling on a train. He has Mein Kampf in his hands. I say… Max is apparently going with brand new papers to pretend he is not a Jew. Why is it ironic that Mein Kampf is considered Max’s savior? Pg. 157 Mein Kampf is his shield. Meant to protect He is pretending it is a great book. him. His friend, Walter Kugler has to go away, into the army. His friend Max is goingfor into the Nazi Army? Why does no one recognize being Jewish? What is the key for? “the key was still taped to the inside cover” He shaved off Jewish sideburns? Or his face? Something to make him look more German. Why does it say Max could taste the words Mein Kampf over and over? (pg. 160) What do you His papers are fake. If he is found out he think He was nervous about his they papers. tasted like to him? He shaved his hair. He was German – or he had been. will be killed. He keeps his face pointed at the book. Will he stop in Munich?
Tricksters pg. 161 The Text Says… I say… Things are becomingout even of tighter at home. Why socustomer many customers bowing Rosa Anotherare washing is lost. Accordingly, Rudy and Liesel make more Rudy and Liesel have even doing more plans. their washing? plans to steal. Otto Strum biked to deliver food to the priests every week. They feel a bit guilty about Otto – they share. It’s bad that they can’t take it home to share. What does that say about the German economy? Rudy poured water over the road to make ice. The plan worked. They stole his basket of food. They shared it with the group of thieves. Why won’t Rudy and Liesel share their new found One big heist. Potatoes. They got caught by the Will this be their last big thieving with their family? farmer – Rudy got caughtfood by the fence. opportunity? Arthur helps him escape. He moves. His sister dies. Did Arthur leave because the farmer found out it was him? What could “Triumph before the storm, ” mean? (pg. 167) Something bad is coming – Arthur gives them chestnuts. They sell them and buy mixed candy. “Triumph before the storm” foreshadowing…
The Struggler, Concluded pg. 168 The Text Says… I say… “the juggling comes to an end” Max and Liesel’s lives will come together. Max makes his way to the Hubermann household. Are they going to hide him? He is scared. He has a suitcase and Mein Kampf. Heaven for him as well - to save him. Why would counting his steps give Max journeys to Himmel Street Himmel – Heaven street – maybe it’ll be some comfort? At least he would die not hidden, walking the streets. Being hidden was like death. What you think is about to happen in the “hedo would die alive” story? He is trying to not appear Jewish. He questions his decision – How could he risk other people’s lives? He pulls out the key. What is the key for? Is it a key to the house?
Part 4 the standover man
The Accordionist pg. 173 The Text Says… I say… Why is it ironic that Eric Vandenburg fought for Maybe Max didn’t Germany in World War I? really think it would Max comes in the house – asked for Hans and asks if he still plays the accordion. We flash back to WWI – Hans was good friends with a man named Erik Vandenburg. Erik died in battle. happen. Maybe the realization of such danger shocked him. Why was painting Eric’s family’s apartment a Hans has a dear friend who died in the On a battle day, “useless Hans didn’t go to the battle. compensation? ” war, who(pg. 179) is Jewish. That is why he He was volunteered to write by Erik. doesn’t see with such harsh eyes. He got the accordion – tried to give it back to Erik’s wife after the war. She didn’t want it – he played for her. Eriknot had taught him how to play. Why would the decision to follow Hitler potentially be a disastrous one? He meets Max(pg. 180) for the first time. He gave her a piece of paper with his information on it – Max comes in – small boy Hans has no idea how their paths will cross, years later. He will be asked to help on a level he never suspected. Why would Mr. Kleinmann send Hans away? (pg. 181) Hans would be needed – but not for painting – twenty years later.
The Accordionist The Text Says… For ten years, Hans’s life seemed back to normal. When Hitler came to power – Hans didn’t join the Nazi Party. The hatred of the Jews made Hans lose customers. He noticed a Jewish store vandalized. He tries to help – he paints the store front. He refuses to be in the Nazi Party. He is started to be suspected. His accordion playing kept him relatively safe. June 16, 1939 He met with Walter Kugler – about saving Max. I Say… Hans did not agree with the hatred. A Jew had saved his life. German business-owners were struggling because many of their customers were taken away by the Nazis. It actually hurts some parts of the country. His two mistakes – Repainting the Jewish shop – he did it to be nice. Not joining the Nazi Party – They are suspicious of Hans – like today’s terrorist – perhaps he is watched. He’s not contributing to “German ideals” No one played the accordion – that kept his skills in demand - Erik saves his life again. Walter Kugler sets up the meeting for Max.
A Good Girl pg. 185 The Text Says… Max arrives in 1940 He is 24 years old He’s worn out and shaken. As Max is about to relax, Liesel comes around the corner. It scares him. Hans reassures him – “She’s a good girl. ” She goes back to bed and listens. I say… Max has been through so much. He has been hiding and not eating much. He has been living in fear. He has a moment where he can finally relax after being tense and worried for so long. At that moment Liesel comes in a spoils it. Max is scared that Liesel will tell. She is a German. Hans might call on her to do her favor for him – “keep a secret” I’m sure Liesel is wondering just what is going on. Does she know he’s a Jew? What will she feel about that?
A Short History of the Jewish Fist Fighter pg. 187 Max’s father died when he was two. Max, in his foolish youth, thinks he can fight “When death captures me, ” the boy vowed, “he willofffeel my fist on his death. His uncle died when he was thirteen. He became a fighter. face. ” (pg. 189) are told the story of his and Walter’s What did Max mean by this? How would. Wethis affectfriendship. him during World His favorite fight – Walter Kugler War II? Fought each other several times over the years. Tensions rise in Germany. Became friends in 1933 – worked together until ‘ 35 – Do you when think the author number 13 on Walter rescues Maxpurpose? feels guilty for Jews were laid off. keeps using the (pg. 169, 191)leaving his family – it’s not like he could have rescued them (but he’s a fighter) Kristallnacht changed everything. What do you think the purpose is? Walter came to rescue Max. His mother gives him a slip of paper – Hans’s Max felt guilty for leaving his family. information. Who theinto Nazi that came Why did he? (pg. 193) Walterwas puts Max hiding for two years. to get Max? I cannot imagine being in a small room, They see that his mother gave him Hans’s information – a new plan emerges. hiding for two years. Why did Max’s family want him to go? Walter checks Hans out – Hans agrees to help. Hans’s copy of Mein Kampf arrives to help Max. Walter says Hans is a good man. Max goes to Hans’s house. Why did Max feel guilty? Would you have felt guilty if you were in the Rosa comes in the room – does she not Walter is sent to Poland. same situation? know? If she doesn’t she’s going to explode. Max to Munich.
The Wrath of Rosa pg. 197 “Her plump figure glowed with I Say… Rosa discovers Max. worry. ” Liesel expects Rosa to be mad and show The Text Says… it. But nothing so loud happens. Liesel tries to stay out of it but she eventually looks to see what is happening. What does Rosa have to be worried about? Rosa is serving Max pea soup. He is eating quickly. Max ate too much. He had been in hiding, eating very little, for two years. When someone who hasn’t eaten, eats too much, it makes them sick. Hans and Rosa were changed by the arrival of Max. They were both probably worried beyond what they had ever been before. What will the Nazis do with them? To Max? To Liesel? If they are found out? Why are her worries legitimate? He then throws up. Why does Liesel think, “who were these people? “She looked at both her foster parents. ” “Who were these people? ”
Liesel’s Lecture pg. 199 The Text Says. . I Say… Reread the middle paragraph of page 200. “A few Helping a Jew – Kind? Ignorant? Insane? What motives could someone have for minutes later…” Max sleeps in the bed meant for Liesel’s doing something so extreme? Whatbrother. stands out to you in this paragraph? She stayed home from school. Will Max grow to mean as much to her as her brother? Why is the word opaque used? Hans explained the situation to her. He tells Liesel and reminds her of her He scares her and is actually harsh with promise to keep a secret. her. Burning her books shocks her like being “The shock made a hole in her, very shot. It was a very moving moment for her. neat, very precise. ” He scares her, but it is necessary that she She cannot tell anyone or they will all understand the gravity of the situation. get taken away or worse. Rosa shows kindness to Liesel. We know Rosa hugs Liesel too. she loves her. Why is Mama’s demeanor bothering Liesel? Why was Hans so harsh with Liesel? Explain the last two sentences. (pg. 204)
The Sleeper pg. 205 The Text Says. . Max slept for three days. Liesel watched him sleep. I Say… It is the most physically and emotionally comfortable position he has been in in two years. He is exhausted. Is Liesel already bonding with Max , in Max talks during his sleep. Family, friend, a way? enemy. Liesel studies him and sees that he has nightmares too. It makes her feel a connection to him. Liesel sees some similarities between them – Arrived in a state of agitation – nightmares When Max awakes, he has been out for so long he is confused. Max wakes up. “decode exactly where and when” He sees someone there and grabs that someone. He is pleading for what? He grabs Liesel and pleads. Help? Explanation? She yells for Papa. What do you think Max may have wanted to say to Liesel?
The Swapping of Nightmares pg. 207 The Text Says… I say… Max would never sleep in Liesel’s room again – he goes to the basement. This is a testament to his character. He would never behave in a wrong way toward a girl. A “hiding” place is made under the stairs. “Living was living. The price was guilt and shame. ” Liesel is slowing trying to communicate with Max. She sees Mein Kampf and wonders about the book. “She was a good woman for a crisis. ” “The secret was buried deep. ” She and Rudy continue friendship. The Whistler – The Shoulder Shrug Hans makes Liesel go down to the basement to read – Max is invited. Hans sees that Max is freezing down there. They decide to let Max sleep upstairs. “A Jewish rat, back in his hole. ” He was ashamed of making Hans and Rosa risk their lives. Perhaps he was even ashamed of how society viewed him. Liesel probably thinks Mein Kampf is full of treasures. The book’s reputation in Nazi Germany certain was that. Rosa had changed and was rising to the occasion. Liesel would not speak of the secret. Books Max and Liesel are drawn to. Liesel is apprehensive about Max. Perhaps she is upset that he stole her sanctuary. Society viewed Jews as rats – ironically his life was very much like one.
The Swapping of Nightmares pg. 207 I Say… Why. The did. Text Max apologize for sleeping in the same room as Liesel? Says… If Hans Jr. found out he would have the whole family arrested. Christmas time would dangerous. “Living was be living. The price was guilt and shame. ” Only the three of them(pg. 208) needed to know of the Hans Jr. did not visit. Explain this statement. secret. Trudy could not be trusted. Jewish wasinjust a label for some – if your you think luck Liesel may have Being thought was Mein Kampf? “a ruinous. What piece do of the dumbest around” great-grandparents were Jewish and you weren’t, it still didn’t matter. Liesel asks if Mein Kampf is good. “AN ATTRIBUTE OF ROSA HUBERMAN Max replies “the best book ever – saved my life” His aresponse laced with sarcasm, but he is also She was a good woman for crisis. ”is(pg. 211) Explain this statement. genuine in the comment. Max begins to tell his story. “I’m at so selfish” Max’s response Liesel’s question about The Swapping of Nightmares As Max tells his story, comfort between all begins Mein Kampf speaks volumes. Explain to start. what he meant. Max is eaten up with guilt for leaving his family and putting another in danger. Life continues – two that worlds – Inside andinside Outside Page 221 states the world and outside their house are very different – explain how it’s different, and why. Max it’s and vital. Liesel to keep it separated. are more alike than they thought. The Mud Men – New book For her birthday – Max didn’t have anything The Inside houses an illegal man – outside Why thetime. hug Liesel gave Max soworld meaningful? Liesel hugs him forwas the first they have to pretend all is normal.
Pages From the Basement pg. 223 The Text Says… Why is it significant that Max’s book was made I say… from the pages of Mein Kampf? Liesel is kept out of the basement for a week. Max is preparing a surprise for her. What did Max’s gift. Max’s do to Liesel? book to Liesel is his story of his He writes a book – The Standover Man on the pages of Mein Kampf life and their friendship. It has him as a bird – because she said his hair was like feathers. “Mein Kampf – gagging, suffocating” The story of Max and Liesel “on her birthday she gave me a gift” There is no difference in two humans. “The Standover Man – numb, Ironic gratified, beautiful itch” that Max’s struggle was painted onto Hitler’s struggle. She went down to the basement to thank Why are the. Max. words used to describe two Ironic thatthese he painted onbooks top of Mien She ends up falling asleep beside Kampf. significant? him.
Part 5 the whistler Page 239
The Floating Book pg. 241 The Text Says… I say… Rudy rescues a floating book. He asks Liesel for a kiss. What happened with the book? Why is the Mayor’s wife’s book floating down the Amper River? Rudy was robbed of life. Rudy dies? ? ? Liesel kissed him. Liesel finally gave him what he always wanted. Too late. Make one prediction about the “He didn’t deserve to die the way He is always trying to get a kiss he did. ” foreshadowing. from Liesel.
The Gamblers (A Seven-Sided Die) pg. 243 Intro and part I The Text Says… Death decides to go back, not get ahead of himself. Gambling – rolling a die by hiding a Jew. The Haircut. Hans and Rosa are arguing. Rosa looks for the scissors. Max asks Liesel to cut his hair. She burned the hair when finished. Max thanked her and vanished back. I say… The narrator always goes forward and then comes back. He gets ahead of himself. Rolling a Jew can have bad consequences. It is a gamble. Hans is seeming more stressed. He didn’t used to fight back like that before Max came. Liesel burns the hair to make sure there is no evidence remaining.
I - The Haircut pg. 244 • Why do they say they are gambling by hiding a Jew? • What significance is a seven-sided die? • Why did Liesel burn the hair?
The Gambler Part II The Newspaper The Text Says… “There’s a Jew in my basement. ” “the secret sat in her mouth” As she went through town she always hunted for newspapers and crossword puzzles for Max to do. Weather was warming – Max remained in the basement They would read together. “Where Hans and Erik were united by music, she and Max were by words…” He slept fully clothed, shoes included I say… Why would Liesel want to tell the mayor’s wife? Is it because she feels safe with her? Liesel did not tell. Liesel and Max share a love for reading Reading can make you escape reality. He was always prepared, at a moment’s notice. Ready to move on…
II - The Newspaper pg. 245 • Why was Liesel tempted to tell Frau Hermann her secret? • What does “the secret sat in her mouth. It made itself comfortable. It crossed its legs” mean? Why is personification used? • What does “He slept with one eye open” mean?
Part III – The Weatherman – Mid. May The Text says. . I say… Liesel is excited about the victory at the soccer game. She tells her family and Max all about it. Max misses the outside world. It could potentially symbolize freedom to him. It must be hard Max asks her for a favor – tell him what to be boxed up in a house or room. Whythedo you weather is likethink Max wants to know Liesel’s explanation of the what theoutweather is like? “big long cloud, and it’s stretched like a rope. At the end of it, the sun is like a yellow hole…” Max paints it on the wall – “It was a Monday, and they walked on a tightrope to the sun. ” weather is full of colorful language. It is a very poetic exchange between them, cemented by his painting the scene on the wall.
Part IV – The Boxer: End of May I say… The Text Says… “The minutes were cruel. Hours werebypunishing. ” Time was crawling for Max. He needed The minutes were cruel. pg. 250 something to distract his long hours. When Liesel came down Max was interested in He looked forward to Liesel’s coming each life again. Explain these phrases. day. He needed new projects – began exercising. He used to be in good shape. So he started doing this to pass the time. Explain the significance of Max’s daydream. This is when he imagines he is fighting the Fuhrer. He is very imaginative – he imagines a boxing match between him and Hitler. He has read Mein Kampf and knows all the plans. Why didn’t he win? Hitler is beating him at first – then it turns around. Will Max win? How did Hitler change it when Why Therehe is nowas way to losing? beat Hitler. He is too – he turns it all around against Max. did he do smart that? Hitler stands up and convinces all to fight with him, against Jews. Max is being beaten – a girl was nice to him The girl is his light.
Part V – The New Dream: A Few Nights Later The Text Says… I say… Liesel comes down while Max is doing push-ups and watches him. Is this a nightmare? He tells her he has a new dream – when he’s awake. Perhaps he is fighting to survive. If he survives this, he wins and the Fuhrer loses. He is fighting the Fuhrer. That’s why he trains. He tells her he wins. We know that in the last day dream he did not win. “It was though he’d opened up her palm, given her the words, and closed it up again. ” What does this sentence mean? Was it a secret? Will she keep this knowledge close to her ?
Part VI – The Painters: Early June The Text Says… Max has a project to finish Mein Kampf. He is painting over each page. Mama, Max and Papa paint the pages and hang them to dry. Liesel gets home and starts to help. Basement Visions, June 1941 Foreshadowing – The Word Shaker I say – At first I think he’s going to finish reading it – but he’s going to finish covering it all up. It’s interesting how they are all helping with this activity. We see Mama hasn’t changed… Each day Max lives, brings him closer to victory over the Fuhrer. Is this a new book Max will write?
The New Dream & The Painters • Why did Max tell Liesel that he won his fights with Hitler? • How could that day of painting have given Max hope? • Why is it significant that all four of them are painting over Hitler’s words?
Part VII – The Showdown: June 24 The Text Says… The seven-sided die = bad luck Gambling on a Jew – it’ll catch up with you Bad times start for Germany when Germany invades Russia. Rosa lost the Mayor’s business – the last one Liesel views it as rejection She sat on the steps and read the letter. When she got to Munich street she walked back. She was terrible to the Mayor’s wife. The Mayor’s wife was injured. Liesel threw the book at her feet. I say… Things is Germany go from okay to really bad. Perhaps, in this case it’s just bad luck? From hiding a Jew? Liesel is brutal to the woman. She lets her anger, probably about many issues, boil over at the woman. She feels terribly guilty for what she has done. She wants to be punished, but she isn’t. She comes back to the house and tells Rosa it She tries to punish herself with push-ups. is her fault. She asks Max to teach her how to do push. Papa knows exactly what to say. ups. Papa knows something is wrong.
VII – The Showdown pg. 257 • Figurative Language – when you get done with your notes, go back and read pages 262 -263. • Find three examples of figurative language and write them down in quotations. • Explain what each one means. • Why would Liesel want to be punished?
Rudy’s Youth pg. 267 • “One click!” they were told. “That’s all the Fuhrer wants to hear. Everyone united. Everyone together as one!” pg. 268 • Why would the Nazis want such perfection from everyone? • What could potentially happen to Tommy if he doesn’t improve? Why?
The Losers pg. 272 • How could Hitler Youth have influenced Viktor Chemmel’s view on stealing and his behavior? • (Think about the first full paragraph on pg. 273. ) • Why do you think the trees that were so full of apples last year are lacking this year? What could that symbolize?
Sketches pg. 277 • Explain the picture on page 279. • What is a conductor’s job? • Why is he speaking music? • Explain the picture on 280. • Who are the people on top? And who are the people piled up? • Why is the sun like that? • Why was Liesel frightened?
The Whistler and the Shoes pg. 282 • Why does she call the Mayor’s library home on page 288? • What does the phrase, “The minutes were heavy while he was gone” mean? (pg. 290) • Why do you think Rudy did each act of stupidity? • What does this say about his character?
The Floating Book (Part II) pg. 300 • Use Claim-Evidence-Commentary to answer this question. That means you will have at least three sentences. • Claim- restate the question and answer it. • Evidence – The text says “find a quote from the book. ” • Commentary – Prove – you tell me why that quote proves your point. This is the most important part. • How did Viktor Chemmel know Liesel liked the book so much?
Part 6 the dream carrier Look at the features of this part on page 305. Make a prediction of three things that could happen.
Death’s Diary: 1942 pg. 307 • Why did Death say his workload increased in 1942? • How does he feel about it?
The Snowman pg. 311 • What does the phrase, “For a few minutes, they all forgot, ” mean on page 312? • Why was the snowman so important to all of them? • Why did Papa say Liesel “had to” bring the snow to the basement? Pg. 316
Thirteen Presents pg. 317 • Why did Liesel tell Rosa to start swearing at her if he wakes up? • And why did that comment make Rosa smile? • Why do you think Liesel was looking for presents for Max? • What do you think the presents could potentially mean to Max?
Fresh Air… pg. 325 • Why does The Dream Carrier evoke so many memories and emotions from Liesel? • “By mid-March, the cracks began to appear. ” pg. 329 – Explain that figurative language. • What does Liesel’s dream on pages 330 -331 symbolize? • “…her voice like needle and thread. ” pg. 332 • Why do you think the author uses this metaphor?
Deaths’ Diary: Cologne pg. 336 • How is Death feeling about his job? Why? The Visitor pg. 339 • What does the phrase “Panic generated in that awful way. Throat and mouth. Air became sand. ” mean? Pg. 340 • Why did “everything slow” on page 343? • How did you feel when the Nazi was inspecting the basement?
The Schmunzeler pg. 347 • Do you think Rudy could tell something was wrong? Why? Death’s Diary: The Parisians pg. 349 • What does the phrase, “freed them from their fear” mean on page 350?
Part Seven the complete duden dictionary and thesaurus pg. 351
Champagne and Accordions pg. 353 • What does page 354 tell you about the character of Hans Hubermann? • What does the phrase “It was there that he was most alive. ” mean? Pg. 355 • Define competence with your dictionary. Write it in your notes. • What does the phrase, “Competence was attractive” mean? (pg. 356)
The Trilogy pg. 359 • What is the trilogy of happiness? List the three things. • How do you feel about the letter? • Did Liesel handle it the way you would have? Why or why not?
The Sound of Sirens pg. 371 • What does the reaction of the people in the basement say about the people of Himmel Street? (they were not singing Nazi songs, etc) “only fear and apprehension” pg. 375 • How would you feel if you couldn’t see the outside for 22 months? • What did Max mean on page 378, when he said the stars burned his eyes?
The Sky Stealer pg. 379 • How does the way the author writes add to the situation on page 380? Use specific evidence from the text. • What does the sentence, “This, it said, is your accordion, ” mean? (pg. 381)
Frau Holtzapfel’s Offer pg. 385 • Why was Frau Holtzapfel proud and afraid on page 388? • Why did the author use this sentence? – pg. 388 • “They were going to Dachau, to concentrate. ”
The Long Walk to Dachau pg. 389 • Why did Papa do what he did? Why did he start regretting it? • What does it say about Hans’s character that he help the Jewish man? • What lesson can we learn from this act by Hans Hubermann? • Why were people just standing by watching, when some of them clearly wanted to help? • Does that ever happen in our lives?
Peace pg. 397 • Make a prediction as to what may happen to Max? • What does the phrase, “stupid kindness” mean on page 400? • How do you feel about what Hans did? • Why did it eat him up inside?
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