Our work here, although of vital importance, cannot be spoken of. I have no need to remind you of the oath of loyalty you took.
-- Rapportfuhrer Friedrich (Chapter 1 paragraph Page 5, paragraph 3)

Importance: Set in Nazi Germany during the 1930s and World War II, this quote immediately sets the tone for the novel. Christopher will observe, experience, and participate in things he never thought he would, all pertaining to the prisoners held at Auschwitz-Birkenau by the Nazi regime. While there are a few other SS officers Christopher is able to work deals with via bribery/favors, Friedrich is not one of them. Friedrich’s statement here displays his own complete loyalty to the Reich and its mission, and his attitude of expecting the same from all of his inferior officers.

Christopher felt the dread of a life without Rebecca creep through his entire body.
-- Narrator (Chapter 5 paragraph Page 33, paragraph 10)

Importance: At this point in the novel, Christopher and Rebecca are 15 years old. She is...