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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is the BDM?

2. What book does the mysterious young man take on the train with him while traveling cross country?

3. How long do Liesel and Rudy work with the gang leader before he moves away?

4. Who did Hans credit with saving his life during WWI?

5. How does Hans react when he finds out Liesel stole a book from the bonfire?

Short Essay Questions

1. How was Max Vandenberg treated by his schoolmates as a child?

2. When Frau Hermann invites LIesel inside her house, what does she show the young girl?

3. What objects are given to the mysterious young man in Stuttgart to help him escape the city?

4. Who was Erik Vandenberg?

5. Why is the relationship between Hans and Hans Jr. strained?

6. What does Max give to Liesel on her birthday?

7. Why is Liesel in a train at the opening of the novel?

8. How did Erik Vandenberg's widow respond when Hans Hubermann came knocking at her door?

9. How does Rudy Steiner express his admiration for Jesse Owens?

10. How does Max escape from Stuttgard after the war breaks out?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Zusak chooses a very interesting narrator in the voice of Death. First, describe at least two scenes in which Death visits with Liesel. What does the reader learn about Death, and Liesel's relationship with him during these interactions? Do you think Death was an effective narrator for this novel? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

Liesel's journey into adulthood can be traced through the books she reads. Choose at least three titles Liesel reads throughout the course of the novel and explain what Liesel learned from each of these texts. Then, explain how the books Liesel reads can trace her growth into adulthood using the three books you've selected as primary examples.

Essay Topic 3

One of the ways Liesel finds acceptance after moving to a new school is to join a gang. First, describe the gang Liesel was a part of. Who is the leader? What does the gang fight for? Then, explain how the gang helps Liesel learn how to function within a group. How does this lesson come in handy for Liesel later on in her life?

(see the answer keys)

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