wonderful book for adults of all ages
This is a wonderful novel. Moving yet funny, very real about a terrible time in history but, because of it's observations on the human condition, more warm than grim. My wife and I liked it so much we purchased 5 copies to give to friends.

Magical
My book club chose this as this month's selection and it's a good thing I read it this way because I hated the first 35 or so pages. The tempo was really odd and staccato -- kind of like listening to progressive jazz when you're used to rock or classical. The pacing was really strange. I probably wouldn't have finished it had it not been an assignment of sorts.

But oh am I glad I forced myself to keep reading because starting around page 38 things just got magical. This book, about what one little girl does to get through life in WW2-era Germany is heartbreaking and beautiful but still manages to be funny and surprisingly light. Aside from reminding us that there were good people living in Germany during the war, what this book is really about is appreciating the little, everday things and the people we know, flaws and all. I fell in love with the characters, each of whom was well developed and felt like family by the time the book ended. I won't go through them, enough other people already have, but I wanted to weigh in on the 5-star bandwagon. The book is that good. Yes, death ultimately triumphs over all, but what this novel really does is celebrate life.

It's been a very long time since I read a book that moved me this much or had such an impact. I actually think it might be a bit too much for adolescent readers, but as an adult I found this thoroughly delightful.

Beautifully written
An incredible story, draws you in immediately. Beautifully written. Deeply moving. A great read for all 14+.

A truly wondrous read
I originally bought this book as a gift for my 13 year old nephew. I had it on my desk at work for a couple of days and getting a bit curious, I decided to read a few pages.

A day or so later, I found myself at a bookstore because I had already gotten so far into the story, I had to get a replacement--and fast!

Firstly, this is not a Young Adult book. Although many of the characters, including, Leisl are children and teens, many of the others are adults and the situations all of the characters find themselves in are complicated and substantive. But let's not forget the master of ceremonies, our charming host, Death, and his wry asides and witty observations.

While the characters are all interesting and distinct, the story itself is rich in portraying life in all its wonder amid a milieu of the utmost bleakness and despair. Death always seems to step in to give us that special edge whether it be welcomed humor, or sharp observations on humans and their folly. The sheer maturity of Mr. Zusak to portray it all here gives this book the heft and true merit it deserves well beyond the Young Adult classification. This is great fiction, period.

Wholeheartedly recommend, along with the not as well known, but just as remarkable, SIM0N LAZARUS.

loved it
I was recommended this book by a friend. I had never heard of it and was pleasantly suprised. I loved this book. I loved the way it was creatively narrated and it was well written. I would highly recommend.