Select one of the following discussion questions and write a 250-word response based on our reading of The Book Thief pg. 349-370.
1. In the section, "Death's Diary: The Parisians," Death describes what it was like in the concentration camps. Why does he say, "the sky was the color of Jews" (Zusak 349)? How does Death describe what happened to the Jews in those camps? Is his description surprising? Why does Death think he "saved" the Jews? Do you think death was preferable to life in the camps? Why or why not? Back up your opinion with two quotes from the book and be sure to use proper MLA format for in-text citations and Works Cited.
2. In the summer, Liesel begins to write her own life story and she also accompanies Papa on many of his painting jobs. How does Liesel describe this summer? How did Papa get paid for his painting jobs? Describe the first time Liesel drinks champagne. Why is it so special? Describe an ordinary day in your life that turned into a special memory. Who were you with? Are there any sights, smells or tastes that stand out to you about that day? Back up your opinion with two quotes from the book and be sure to use proper MLA format for in-text citations and Works Cited.
3. Describe Rudy's experience at Hitler Youth this summer. How have things changed? How has Rudy changed? Rudy sets a goal to win four gold medals, just like his idol Jesse Owens did. Does he end up reaching his goal? Why or why not? What is an important goal that you have set for yourself? What are the steps you are taking to reach that goal? Do you ever find yourself wanting to give up on your goal? What do you do to keep yourself from giving up? Back up your opinion with two quotes from the book and be sure to use proper MLA format for in-text citations and Works Cited.
