The Book Thief by Markus ZusakMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
My Goodreads review:
This is one of the most beautifully written books I've ever read - which might sound as if the language is self-consciously flowery, but not at all. It's simply right, perfect. And the story enthrals. The characters are among the realest I've ever come across. And yet it's not a predictable book, which is another plus for me. I hate being able to second-guess a plot, as I so often can. It's a huge best-seller, so its literary brilliance is obviously not at odds with popular appeal.
I won't recount the story, as many other reviewers on Goodreads have already done so. I'll just say — if you only ever read one more book, make this the one.