Liesel experiences life in Nazi Germany with her eyes wide open and seeks solace in the written word. Having lost her brother and mother, Liesel is sent to Himmel Street to live with foster parents where her curiosity and interest in books makes her steal them and her spirit and determination mean she is not afraid to do so. A great deal has been taken away from her. She steals books to settle the score. Liesel is feisty and spirited, she isn't afraid of the school bully or the SS soldiers. Liesel forms important close relationships in her new life with her kind foster father, the loveable boy down the street and her special confidant, the young Jewish man living in her basement.