“The Book Thief ”Turns 20: Author Markus Zusak Reflects on Two Decades of His Powerful Ode to Reading (Exclusive)

**Markus Zusak Celebrates 20 Years of ‘The Book Thief’ with New Anniversary Edition**

Markus Zusak, the celebrated author of the beloved novel *The Book Thief*, recently reflected on the book’s remarkable legacy as it reaches its 20th anniversary. Originally published two decades ago, the novel has captivated readers worldwide, prompting publishers to release a special edition that showcases manuscript pages, sketches, and excerpts from Zusak’s own writing notebook.

Speaking to *PEOPLE*, Zusak expressed his gratitude towards readers who have embraced the book so deeply. “Books don’t stay alive on their own,” he explained, emphasising the crucial role that a dedicated readership plays in keeping literature thriving. He remarked on the profound connection that comes from a shared experience between readers and the story, saying, “I’m just really grateful to readers who’ve just taken it so much to heart.”

*The Book Thief*, set against the harrowing backdrop of Nazi Germany, unfolds through the unique perspective of Death as the narrator. The narrative follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl who, while living with foster parents, develops a passion for stealing books. With her foster father’s guidance, Liesel learns to read amidst the chaos of war, as she finds solace in the written word and the hidden Jewish man residing in their basement.

Zusak approached the creation of the novel with a willingness to take risks, often pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling. Reflecting on his journey as a writer, he noted that he embraced bold narrative choices, stating, “Every time I thought of a new idea for the book, or a bit of a gamble, I took it.” This adventurous spirit became a defining characteristic of the book and contributed to its enduring impact on readers.

The author is driven by what he describes as “the magic act of black words on a white page making you see the world in colour.” This vivid and transformative experience of reading is something he strives to create in his works. “I really like that idea of putting two words in a sentence together,” Zusak remarked. “It’s like dynamite when you bring those ideas together, and I love getting those sparks when I’m reading.”

Zusak’s notion of *The Book Thief* as a narrative about stories and their power may also contribute to its success. He believes readers connect with the themes of storytelling and the impact their narratives can have. Additionally, the element of theft in the title resonates with many, allowing readers to identify with the exhilarating allure of stealing books, whether it be a school library caper or an accidental misappropriation.

Despite ongoing discussions regarding the future of books in a digital age, Zusak is optimistic about the enduring relevance of literature. “I feel like you really become the characters when you’re reading a book,” he asserted, “and that’s one of the reasons why I think books will never die.” He dismissed the recurring claims about the demise of literature, suggesting that if books were destined to vanish, that fate would have already transpired.

What Zusak cherishes most is the sense of belonging to a global community of readers and writers. He views this interconnectedness as essential to the literary world: “I love being part of a worldwide community like that, of writers and readers.” In this dynamic exchange, he sees himself not just as a writer but also as a reader, deeply entrenched in the shared experience of storytelling.

With the anniversary edition of *The Book Thief* now available for purchase, fans of the book can celebrate its legacy while discovering new insights into its creation. This edition serves as a testament to its lasting impact on literature and its ability to forge connections across generations. As we look back on the two decades since its release, it is clear that *The Book Thief* remains a poignant reminder of the transformative power of stories in our lives.