Analysis

Just as Ilsa Hermann provided refuge for Liesel with her library, now she comes to offer Liesel a place in their home. Throughout the novel, Frau Hermann has nourished Liesel with words and it was her gift that saved Liesel’s life. In this chapter, Frau Hermann continues to fill the role as Liesel’s rescuer.

Liesel’s decision not to wash the dirt of the Himmel Street bombing from her body indicates how she is carrying the events of that day with her, physically and emotionally. She serves as a reminder, too, to those at the funeral who see the girl covered in so much grime.

Death’s description of the silver sky during Liesel’s chat with Alex Steiner recalls the silver eyes of Hans Hubermann and how he is watching over his daughter.