ASSESSMENTS

The assessment resources will help you measure how well students are understanding the
text and how well they can apply the literary skills taught throughout a unit.

This resource is also technology friendly! It can be utilized in classrooms where

computers or tablets are central to instruction because the resource has been adapted
for digital completion. The resource includes links for students to complete the
assessments in Google Forms™. For instance, students can work with the documents in
Google Drive™ or via Google Classroom. With these links, you can have students
complete their assessments online. All they will have to do is fill out the Google Form!
There are links for every assessment, making the format friendly not only for technology
but also trees. The resources include:

• Chapter Set Mini-Quizzes: The chapter set mini-quizzes assess students’ understanding of
each reading. Each quiz asks three questions related to the events of a given chapter
set. The quiz can be used at the end of class or if assigning reading for homework, can
assess whether or not students did, in fact, complete their work. An answer key is
included.

• Comprehension and Literary Quizzes: The comprehension and literary quizzes assess
students on the events, characters, and details of the novel. For each of the 10 parts
of the novel, the quizzes include a variety of questions types including: sequence of
events, true/false, fill-in-the-blank, multiple-choice, and short answer questions.
Answer keys for each quiz are included.

• Final Test: The final test asks students to apply the various literary skills they’ve
developed through a study of the novel. Each question is aligned to a specific skill and,
in turn, a specific Common Core State Standard. The first part of the test is a
character quote matching section. The second part contains 14 multiple choice
questions, and the final part asks 6 short answer questions requiring a written
response. An answer key is included.

• Essays: The essays resource contains five different essay questions. The questions are
aligned to literary skills and are also Common Core aligned. Suggestions for
answers/topics are included.

• Final Reflection: On the last day of the unit, students can spend class time reflecting on
their experience through the unit reflection questions. The reflection asks specific
questions about individual experiences that can then serve as a way to guide future
implementation of resources.

• Exit Ticket Forms: The forms can serve as a small skills assessment at the end of each
lesson. The ticket has room for a question-of-the-day as well as an effort rating.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 2

 Resource Page

Common Core State Standards Covered 4

Novel Parts and Chapter Titles 5

Chapter Set Mini-Quizzes 6-14

Part One Quiz 15-16

Part Two Quiz 17-18

Part Three Quiz 19-20

Part Four Quiz 21-22

Part Five Quiz 23-24

Part Six Quiz 25-26

Part Seven Quiz 27

Part Eight Quiz 28-29

Part Nine Quiz 30

Part Ten Quiz 31

Final Literary Assessment 32-38

Essays 39-43

Exit Ticket Form 44

Unit Reflection 45

Answer Keys 46-68

Thank You & Terms of Use 69-70

© 2017 LIT Lessons 3

 Common Core State Standards Covered by Assessment Materials

Standards below are based on 9-10th grade Common Core State Standards strands
but are easily applicable to other grades.

Standards

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.1: Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to

support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn
from the text.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.2: Determine a theme or central idea of a text
and analyze in detail its development over the course of the text, including how it
emerges and is shaped and refined by specific details; provide an objective
summary of the text.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.3: Analyze how complex characters (e.g., those
with multiple or conflicting motivations) develop over the course of a text,
interact with other characters, and advance the plot or develop the theme.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.4: Determine the meaning of words and phrases
as they are used in the text, including figurative and connotative meanings;
analyze the cumulative impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone
(e.g., how the language evokes a sense of time and place; how it sets a formal
or informal tone).
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.5: Analyze how an author’s choices concerning
how to structure a text, order events within it (e.g., parallel plots), and
manipulate time (e.g., pacing, flashbacks) create such effects as mystery,
tension, or surprise.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.6: Analyze a particular point of view or
cultural experience reflected in a work of literature from outside the United
States, drawing on a wide reading of world literature.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.10: By the end of grade 9, read and
comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poems, in the grades 9-10
text complexity band proficiently, with scaffolding as needed at the high end of
the range.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.2: Write informative/explanatory texts to
examine and convey complex ideas, concepts, and information clearly and
accurately through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 4

 The Book Thief - Chapter Titles and Sections
Prologue – A Mountain Range of Rubble
1. Death and Chocolate Part Six – The Dream Carrier
2. Beside the Railway Line 45. Death’s Diary: 1942
3. The Eclipse 46. The Snowman
4. The Flag 47. Thirteen Presents
48. Fresh Air, an Old Nightmare, and What to Do with
Part One – The Grave Digger’s Handbook a Jewish Corpse
5. Arrival on Himmel Street 49. Death’s Diary: Cologne
6. Growing Up a Saumensch 50. The Visitor
7. The Woman with the Iron Fist 51. The Schmunzeler
8. The Kiss 52. Death’s Diary: The Parisians
9. The Jesse Owens Incident
10. The Other Side of Sandpaper Part Seven – The Complete Duden Dictionary and
11. The Smell of Friendship Thesaurus
12. The Heavyweight Champion of the 53. Champagne and Accordions
School- Yard 54. The Trilogy
55. The Sound of Sirens
Part Two – The Shoulder Shrug 56. The Sky Stealer
13. A Girl Made of Darkness 57. Frau Holtzapfel’s Offer
14. The Joy of Cigarettes 58. The Long Walk to Dachau
15. The Town Walker 59. Peace
16. Dead Letters 60. The Idiot and the Coat Men
17. Hitler’s Birthday, 1940
18. 100 Percent Pure German Sweat Part Eight – The Word Shaker
19. The Gates of Thievery 61. Dominoes and Darkness
20. Book of Fire 62. The Thought of Rudy Naked
63. Punishment
Part Three – Mein Kampf 64. The Promise Keeper’s Wife
21. The Way Home 65. The Collector
22. The Mayor’s Library 66. The Bread Eaters
23. Enter the Struggler 67. The Hidden Sketchbook
24. The Attributes of Summer 68. The Anarchist’s Suit Collection
25. The Aryan Shopkeeper
26. The Struggler, Continued Part Nine – The Last Human Stranger
27. Tricksters 69. The Next Temptation
28. The Struggler, Concluded 70. The Cardplayer
71. The Snows of Stalingrad
Part Four– The Standover Man 72. The Ageless Brother
29. The Accordionist 73. The Accident
30. A Good Girl 74. The Bitter Taste of Questions
31. A Short History of the Jewish Fist Fighter 75. One Toolbox, One Bleeder, One Bear
32. The Wrath of Rosa 76. Homecoming
33. Liesel’s Lecture
34. The Sleeper Part Ten – The Book Thief
35. The Swapping of Nightmares 77. The End of the World (Part I)
36. Pages From the Basement 78. The Ninety-Eighth Day
79. The War Maker
Part Five – The Whistler 80. Way of the Words
37. The Floating Book (Part I) 81. Confessions
38. The Gamblers 82. Ilsa Hermann’s Little Black Book
39. Rudy’s Youth 83. The Rib-Cage Planes
40. The Losers 84. The End of the World (Part II)
41. Sketches
42. The Whistler and the Shoes Epilogue – The Last Color
43. Three Acts of Stupidity by Rudy Steiner 85. Death and Liesel
44. The Floating Book (Part II) 86. Wood in the Afternoon
87. Max
88. The Handover Man

© 2017 LIT Lessons 5

 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
Mini-Quiz 1 Mini-Quiz 2

1. Prologue Quiz Questions 2. Arrival on Himmel – Growing Up a

Saumensch Quiz Questions
1. When does the narrator think
people observe the colors of the day? 1. What book does Liesel steal?

2. Who are the two people that die in the 2. What does Himmel mean in English?
first chapters?

3. What instrument does Hans play?

3. What are the three colors the
narrator associates with the book thief?

Mini-Quiz 3 Mini-Quiz 4

3. The Woman with the Iron Fist – The 4. The Jesse Owens Incident – The Other
Kiss Quiz Questions Side of Sandpaper Quiz Questions

1. What does Rosa do for work? 1. What does Rudy do that gets him
into trouble?

2. What game do the kids play on

Himmel Street? 2. What happens with Liesel that prompts
the midnight classes?

3. What does Rudy challenge Liesel to

do? Why? 3. What does Liesel do first to learn how
to read?

© 2017 LIT Lessons 6

 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
Mini-Quiz 5 Mini-Quiz 6

5. The Smell of Friendship – The

Heavyweight Champion of the School- 6. A Girl Made of Darkness – The
Yard Quiz Questions Town Walker Quiz Questions

1. What are the two smells of friendship? 1. Approximately how long did it take
for Liesel to steal another book?

2. What does Liesel read in front of

the class? 2. What presents does Liesel receive
at Christmas?

3. What does Sister Maria do to Liesel

when she misbehaves? 3. Why does Rosa make Liesel run all
the laundry errands now?

Mini-Quiz 7 Mini-Quiz 8

7. Dead Letters – Hitler’s Birthday, 8. 100 Percent Pure German Sweat –

1940 Quiz Questions Book of Fire Quiz Questions

1. What birthday present does Liesel 1. Who sees Liesel steal the book from
give herself? the pile?

2. What are the names of the 2. Who does Liesel help during the
Hubermann’s children? book- burning event?

3. Why does Liesel have to go to the 3. What is the name of the book
Hitler birthday celebration? Liesel steals?
Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
© 2017 LIT Lessons 7
 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
Mini-Quiz 9 Mini-Quiz 10

9. The Way Home – Enter the

Struggler Quiz Questions 10. The Attributes of Summer – The
Aryan Shopkeeper Quiz Questions
1. What book does Hans buy?
1. What is one attribute of the summer?

2. How does the mayor’s wife react to

Liesel book thievery? 2. What happened to Ilsa Hermann’s son?

3. Who is coming to the 3. What do Liesel and Rudy buy with

Hubermann household? Why? the money they find?

Mini-Quiz 11 Mini-Quiz 12

11. The Struggler, Continued – The 12. The Accordionist – A Good Girl
Struggler, Concluded Quiz Questions Quiz Questions

1. What does Max do right before he 1. How does Hans survive WWI?
leaves his hiding closet?

2. What does Hans give the

2. How do Rudy and Liesel steal from Vandenburg family before he leaves?
Otto Sturm?

3. In 1933, why does Hans lose

3. How do Rudy and Liesel get money painting business?
for mixed candy at Frau Diller’s?

© 2017 LIT Lessons 8

 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
Mini-Quiz 13 Mini-Quiz 14

13. A Short History of the Jewish Fist

Fighter – Liesel’s Lecture Quiz 14. The Sleeper – The Swapping of
Questions Nightmares Quiz Questions

1. How does Max meet Walter Kugler? 1. Where do Hans and Rosa move Max
when it’s too cold in the basement?

2. How long does Max stay in hiding?

2. What book is Liesel reading in
the Hermann library?

3. How does Rosa respond to Max’s arrival?

3. What does Max have nightmares about?

Mini-Quiz 15 Mini-Quiz 16

15. Pages From the Basement Quiz 16. The Floating Book (Part I) – The
Questions Gamblers Quiz Questions

1. How does Max draw himself in 1. What image does Max paint on
“The Standover Man”? the basement wall?

2. Who is the “standover man” in 2. What do the Hubermann’s, Liesel,

Max’s story? and Max do in the basement together?

3. What does Max write his story on? 3. Why does Liesel confront Ilsa Hermann?
Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
© 2017 LIT Lessons 9
 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
Mini-Quiz 17 Mini-Quiz 18

17. Rudy’s Youth – Sketches

Quiz Questions 18. The Whistler and the Shoes Quiz
Questions
1. Why does Rudy get in trouble at
Hitler Youth? 1. What is Rudy forced to do at the last
Hitler Youth session?

2. Who is the new leader of the

stealing group? 2. What does Liesel steal and from whom?

3. How does Max spend most of his time 3. What does Rudy forget after
in the basement now? Liesel successfully steals?

Mini-Quiz 19 Mini-Quiz 20

19. Three Acts of Stupidity by Rudy 20. Death’s Diary: 1942 –

Steiner – The Floating Book (Part II) Quiz Thirteen Presents Quiz
Questions Questions

1. What does Rudy try to steal at the market? 1. Why does Death complain in his
diary entry?

2. Who sticks up for Rudy at the market?

2. What do the Hubermann’s, Liesel,
and Max do to celebrate Christmas?

3. What does Rudy do that results in

Franz Deutscher beating him up?
3. Name 3 presents Liesel gives Max.
Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
© 2017 LIT Lessons 10
 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
Mini-Quiz 21 Mini-Quiz 22

21. Fresh Air, An Old Nightmare, and

What to Do with a Jewish Corpse – 22. The Visitor – Death’s Diary:
Death’s The Parisians Quiz Questions
Diary: Cologne Quiz Questions
1. Why do Nazis visit Liesel’s house?
1. What book does Liesel steal from
the mayor’s library?

2. What does Liesel do to warn her parents

of the Nazis’ approach?
2. What does Rosa accuse Liesel of
stealing at home?

3. Where is Death collecting so many

Jewish people?
3. What do kids collect in the town
nearby Cologne?

Mini-Quiz 23 Mini-Quiz 24

23. Champagne and Accordions – 24. The Sound of Sirens – Frau

The Trilogy Quiz Questions Holtzapfel’s Offer Quiz Questions

1. Why does Hans business start to get 1. What does Liesel do that calms
busy again? everyone during the air raid?

2. What are the three events that make 2. How long has Max been in the
”The Trilogy”? Hubermann basement?

3. What two things does Ilsa give Liesel? 3. What is Frau Holtzapfel willing to stop
if Liesel will read to her?
Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
© 2017 LIT Lessons 11
 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
Mini-Quiz 25 Mini-Quiz 26

25. The Long Walk to Dachau – The Idiot

and the Coat Men Quiz Questions 26. The Dominoes and Darkness –
Punishment Quiz Questions
1. What does Hans try to give the
Jewish man on the march? 1. Why do the Nazis want to take Rudy?

2. What is the immediate consequence 2. What does Rudy keep secret until
of that act? the Nazis’ visit?

3. Who do the Nazi men come for at the 3. What happens to Hans and Alex
end of the reading? Steiner due to their “rebellious” actions?

Mini-Quiz 27 Mini-Quiz 28

27. The Promise Keeper’s Wife – The 28. The Bread Eaters – The
Collector Quiz Questions Anarchist’s Suit Collection Quiz
Questions
1. What does Rosa do to wake Hans up
from his hangover? 1. What does Liesel dream of after she
reads “The Word Shaker”?

2. What does Alex Steiner get assigned to

do during the war? 2. Where does the seed for the word
shaker’s tree come from?

3. What is Hans’ job during the war?

3. What do Rudy and Liesel do in
Rudy’s father’s shop?
Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
© 2017 LIT Lessons 12
 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
Mini-Quiz 29 Mini-Quiz 30

29. The Next Temptation – The

Ageless Brother Quiz 30. The Accident – Homecoming
Questions Quiz Questions

1. What does Ilsa leave for Liesel and Rudy? 1. What injury does Hans suffer from in
the accident?

2. What happens to Michael’s

brother Robert? 2. What does Rudy leave in the street
when he fails to steal?

3. What does Rosa learn about her son?

3. What does Rudy give the enemy pilot?

Mini-Quiz 31 Mini-Quiz 32

31. The End of the World (Part I) – The 32. Way of the Words – Ilsa
War Maker Quiz Questions Hermann’s Little Black Book Quiz
Questions
1. Why does Liesel survive the bombing?
1. How does Liesel give Max strength
and love when she sees him?

2. What has happened to Max?

2. After Rudy reads Max’s sketchbook,
what is he surprised by?

3. What happens to Michael Holtzapfel?

3. What does Liesel do in the
Hermann library?
Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
© 2017 LIT Lessons 13
 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
Reading Check Mini-Quiz 34
33

33. The Rib-Cage Planes – The End of the 34. Epilogue Quiz Questions
World (Part II) Quiz Questions
1. Who takes Liesel in after the bombing?
1. What does Liesel do with the black
book Ilsa gives to her?

2. What does Liesel refuse to do after

the bombing?
2. What does Liesel imagine Hans
doing when she finds his body?

3. What happens to Max after the war?

3. What does Liesel do when she

finds Rudy’s body?

© 2017 LIT Lessons 14

 Part One Quiz

The Book Thief

SECTION I: Order the following events of the novel in chronological order

- Liesel beats up a kid in the school yard that make fun of her.
- Liesel comes to Himmel Street to live with the Hubermann’s.
- Rudy pretends to be Jesse Owens and covers himself in charcoal.
- Liesel’s brother Werner dies.
- Liesel meets the neighborhood kids, and Rudy asks for a kiss.

SECTION II: Mark true statements with a T, and false statements with an F
- Liesel does not bathe for two weeks when she arrives on Himmel Street.
- Hans Hubermann supports the Nazi Party and its politics.
- Rosa Hubermann constantly curses at Liesel and Hans.
- Liesel steals her first book – Grave Digger’s Handbook.
- Liesel loves the Grave Digger’s Handbook because it reminds her of her mother and
father.

SECTION III: Fill in the blank

1. The story takes place in a town in Germany called .

2. Liesel’s mother gave her up to foster care because she believes in

political beliefs.

3. Hans Hubermann is frequently compared to the color .

4. At first, Liesel is placed in the classroom because she can’t read.

5. Rudy challenges Liesel to a race and bets a if he wins.

SECTION IV: Multiple-choice

1. Which of the following is a conflict that Liesel does not face in the first part of the
novel?
a. Given away by her mother and adopted by the Hubermann’s
b. Unable to read and teased by her classmates
c. Suffering from nightmares of her brother’s death
d. She is caught stealing another book

© 2017 LIT Lessons 15

2. Which of the following best describes the setting of the novel?
a. Molching, Germany during Nazi reign in 1939
b. Berlin, Germany prior to Nazi domination in 1933
c. The Hitler Olympics in 1936
d. Around the world during WWII

3. What instrument does Hans play?

a. Trumpet
b. Piano
c. Accordion
d. Guitar

4. What are the three colors Death associates with Liesel?

a. Red, yellow, white
b. Red, white, black
c. Black, yellow, silver
d. Silver, white, yellow

5. Which best describes the point of view of the novel?

a. First person (limited) from Death's perspective
b. First person (limited) from Liesel's perspective
c. Third person omniscient from Liesel's perspective
d. Third person limited from Death's perspective

SECTION V: Short answer responses

1. What is the main conflict of the novel so far? What type of conflict is it and how do we see it
affect the characters? Use examples to support your answer.

2. We see many instances of love. Explain how two different characters show their love. What
does the reader learn as a result? Use examples to support your answer.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 16

 Part Two Quiz

The Book Thief

SECTION I: Order the following events of the novel in chronological order

- Liesel starts to deliver the laundry herself since Rosa thinks they wont’ fire a girl.
- Liesel and Hans attend a book-burning event in honor of Hitler.
- Liesel steal a book when the event is over and hides it in her coat.
- Liesel receives two books for Christmas.
- Liesel takes washing money and mails the rest of her letters to her mother.

SECTION II: Mark true statements with a T, and false statements with an F
- Hans slaps Liesel when she claims that she doesn’t love her foster parents.
- Liesel helps Rudy during the book-burning event because he hurt his ankle.
- Hans trades his cigarette rations for the two books to give to Liesel for Christmas.
- Hans Jr. calls his father a coward for not supporting and helping the Nazi cause.
- The Hubermann’s get in trouble for not hanging the Nazi flag during the Hitler
birthday event.

SECTION III: Fill in the blank

1. What is the name of Hans and Rosa’s daughter?

2. Liesel steals a book called from the fire.

3. Hans Junior goes to war and most likely dies at .

4. Before Hans Jr. leaves, he calls his father a .

5. The word makes Liesel realize why she lost her parents and

brother.

SECTION IV: Multiple-choice

1. What does Hans do to comfort Liesel after she is beaten for mailing the letters?
a. Hugs her and holds her tight
b. Reads another book with her
c. Plays his accordion
d. Rolls cigarettes with her

© 2017 LIT Lessons 17

2. Which aspect of the setting has the greatest affect on the characters and
conflict?
a. Nazism and politics
b. Winter
c. WWII
d. Rationing and poverty

3. What theme cannot be clearly seen in these chapters?

a. Power of words
b. Friendship
c. Courage
d. Criminality and war

4. What mood does the book-burning event create in the chapter?

a. Feverish
b. Horrifying
c. Elation
d. Joyful

5. Why is Hans not a member of the Nazi Party?

a. He is not allowed to join because of his son
b. He refuses to be a member with his son
c. He cannot afford the membership fee
d. He made a mistake and they are still reviewing his application

SECTION V: Short answer responses

1. What is Hans main conflict? How does that conflict affect him, his family, and Liesel? Use
examples to support your answer.

2. Words are powerful. Explain how the Nazis use words as power. Then, explain how Liesel
sees words as power. How is it different? Use examples to support your answer.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 18

 Part Three Quiz

The Book Thief

SECTION I: Fill in the blank

1. (name) hides Max in a small secret closet.

2. Max dreads being asked for his .

3. The name of the stealing group leader is .

4. Stealing group leader gives Liesel and Rudy as a departing gift.

5. The food Rudy and Liesel steal is supposed to go to .

SECTION II: Multiple-choice

1. Why does Ilsa Hermann keep her windows open when it’s cold?
a. She keeps her window open to suffer as she believes her son suffered
b. She keeps her window open because she is always hot and needs to cool off
c. She keeps her window open because the books in the library create a musty smell
d. She keeps the window open so that Liesel can sneak in and steal books

2. Which of the following is not a good part of the summer time for Liesel?
a. Soccer
b. Stealing
c. Reading The Shoulder Shrug
d. Eating candy

3. Why is Tommy Muller still afraid of Liesel?

a. Tommy is still afraid of her because she aims for his head when kicking the
soccer ball
b. Tommy is still afraid of her because she gets him in trouble at school and gets beat
by Sister Maria
c. Tommy is still afraid of her because he thinks she will snap and beat him again
d. Tommy is still afraid of her because she threatens him every time he smiles

4. How do Liesel and Rudy steal from Otto Sturm?

a. They get lucky and steal when Otto accidentally wrecks his bike
b. They pour water on the street to freeze so Otto wrecks his bike
c. They corner Otto in an alley when he turns down the street
d. They trick Otto and steal his boke from him

© 2017 LIT Lessons 19

5. What happens to Rudy the last time they steal from the farmer?
a. Rudy abandons Liesel when she gets stuck in the fence
b. Rudy gets tangled in the fence and is saved by Liesel and Arthur
c. Rudy gets tangled in the fence and gets caught by the farmer
d. Rudy fights the farmer off and barely escapes over the fence

6. Which conflict affects the characters the most in these chapters?

a. Persecution
b. Poverty
c. Nazi laws and war
d. Hunger

7. Which word best characterizes Max Vandenburg?

a. Impatient
b. Courageous
c. Hopeless
d. Selfish

8. Which best describes the tone of the “Struggler” chapters?

a. Infuriated
b. Frustration
c. Excitement
d. Desperation

SECTION III: Short answer responses

1. What is the connection between suffering and guilt in these chapters? Think of at least two
examples and explain using evidence to support your answer.

2. What does the book Mein Kampf symbolize? Explain two deeper meanings. Use examples
to support your answer.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 20

 Part Four Quiz

The Book Thief

SECTION I: Fill in the blank

1. Hans Hubermann learned to play the accordion from .

2. Max became friends with Walter Kugler through .

3. Max hides in the during the day and in the at

night.

4. In order to get Liesel to keep Max a secret, Hans threatens to .

5. Liesel first thinks Max’s hair looks like , then she says it looks like

SECTION II: Multiple-choice

1. How does Hans escape death in WWI?

a. He stays in the middle of the battle and gets lucky the last time he goes into battle
b. He does not go into battle because he is nominated by Erik Vandenburg to write
letters
c. He does not go into battle because he is nominated by Erik Vandenburg to clean the
toilets
d. He does not go into battle because he is injured and could not fight

2. What is the main reason Hans does not join the Nazi Party in 1933?
a. Hans does not join because his application is rejected when he paints over slurs on a
Jewish shop’s door
b. Hans does not join because he is afraid that he will be sent to war again
c. Hans does not join because he cannot support a party that treats Jewish people so
poorly when one saved his life
d. Hans does not join because he is not very smart and does not understand politics

3. What laws did Nazi Germany pass to legally persecute Jewish people?
a. Kristallnacht
b. Nuremberg Laws
c. Book-burning
d. The Hitler Youth

4. How are Max and Liesel’s experiences similar?

a. They both suffer from nightmares due to the trauma they endure
b. They both must hide in secret closets to avoid capture
c. They both love to write stories
d. They both like to play soccer
© 2017 LIT Lessons 21
5. Which sentence from the book best captures the symbolism of using pages of
Mein Kampf to write ”The Standover Man”?
a. “When he was finished, he used a knife to pierce the pages and tie them with a string.”
b. “…on the paper that had bubbled and humped under the stress of drying paint, did he
begin to write the story.”
c. “During that week, Max had cut out a collection of pages from Mein Kampf and
painted over them in white.”
d. “There were the erased pages of Mein Kampf, gagging, suffocating under the paint as
they turned.”

6. Which example best demonstrates a change in Liesel?

a. She begins to like Rosa's pea soup
b. She gets a newspaper for Max to fill his time in the basement
c. She tells Hans that she wants to deal with her nightmares on her own
d. She stops reading in the basement for a while

7. What does Liesel give Max for her birthday?

a. A book
b. A hug
c. A newspaper
d. A story

8. What theme is most developed in “The Standover Man”?

a. Friendship
b. Family
c. War
d. Law-breaking

SECTION III: Short answer responses

1. How do we see Max's “fighter” identity in these chapters? Think of at least two ways and
explain using evidence to support your answer.

2. In what ways does Rosa change in Part Four of the novel? Explain at least two ways and
use examples to support your answer.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 22

 Part Five Quiz

The Book Thief

SECTION I: Fill in the blank

1. Liesel steals (title) from the Hermann library.

2. Rudy is saved by when he tries to steal the biggest potato.

3. Rudy gets in trouble at Hitler Youth because he refuses to correctly identify

4. Liesel steals to give Max something to do in the basement.

5. Liesel gets angry and yells at Ilsa Hermann because Ilsa .

SECTION II: Multiple-choice

1. Why does the stealing gang decide to follow Viktor Chemmel as their new
leader?
a. The gang follows Viktor because they need someone to tell them what to do
b. The gang follows Viktor because he’s generous and gives away all the spoils
c. The gang follows Viktor because he knows of new stealing spots around town
d. The gang follows Viktor because he fights them all and wins

2. Which of the following is not one of the three acts of stupidity that Rudy commits?
a. Steals a potato from the market
b. Throws a rock at Franz Deutscher and fights him
c. Skips Hitler Youth meetings
d. Stands up for Tommy since Tommy cannot hear

3. What does Death compare hiding a Jew to in this part of the novel?
a. A crossword puzzle
b. A seven-sided die
c. A book
d. A boxing match

4. Why does Viktor Chemmel throw Liesel’s book in the river?

a. He throws the book in the river because the book is illegal and should be burned
b. He throws the book in the river because Liesel embarrassed Viktor
c. He throws the book in the river as payback for Rudy spitting at him
d. He throws the book in the river because Rudy refuses to steal for him

© 2017 LIT Lessons 23

5. What event does Death frequently foreshadow through Part Five of the novel?
a. Rudy's torture at Hitler youth
b. Rudy's death
c. Stealing from the mayor's library
d. Himmel Street bombing

SECTION III: Short answer responses

1. How do we see the power of words to do harm or heal in Part Five? Think of at least two
instances and explain the harm they cause or the healing they do using evidence to support
your answer.

2. In what ways do we see the theme of suffering in Part Five? How do the characters cope
with their suffering? Use examples to support your answer.

3. How are Max's boxing matches with Hitler symbolic? What do they represent? Explain and
support with examples.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 24

 Part Six Quiz

The Book Thief

SECTION I: Order the following events of the novel in chronological order

- Liesel steals The Dream Carrier and reads it to Max.
- Rosa comes to school to yell at Liesel for the hairbrush and tell her about Max.
- Hans, Liesel, and Max have a snowball fight in the basement.
- A Nazi Party member checks the Hubermann basement for its height.
- Liesel causes an injury during the soccer game.

SECTION II: Mark true statements with a T, and false statements with an F
- The Hubermann household is going to be used as a bomb shelter.
- Liesel gives Max a ruined soccer ball, a feather, and a toy soldier when he’s sick.
- Max is moved into Liesel’s room when he is sick.
- Death tells of the bombing of Munich in one of his diary entries.
- Liesel’s dream changes from her brother’s face to Max’s.

SECTION III: Match the quote with correct character

a. “Don’t ever apologize to me. It should be

1. Liesel me who apologizes to you.”

b. “It’s a criminal I smell. You should have

2. Hans a bath.”

c. “…It was like a great white beast…and it

3. Rosa came from over the mountains.”

d. “I didn’t take this man into my house to

4. Max watch him die. Understand?”

e. “I even kissed a few weary,

5. Rudy poisoned cheeks.”

6. Death f. “Rosa, it started with Adolf."

© 2017 LIT Lessons 25

SECTION IV: Multiple-choice

1. Why does Liesel read to Max when he is extremely ill?

a. Liesel reads to Max because she believes the words will help heal him
b. Liesel reads to Max because he is afraid of going to sleep
c. Liesel reads to Max because his illness gives him headaches
d. Liesel reads to Max because she believes it helps him sleep better

2. Why does Liesel blame herself for Max's sickness?

a. She blames herself because she wouldn't let Max sleep in her bedroom
b. She blames herself because she brought the snow to the basement
c. She blames herself because she overhears Rosa blame her
d. She blames herself because she overhears Hans blame her

3. What happens when Death visits Himmel Street?

a. Death watches Liesel take care of Max and decides to let him live
b. Max and Death see colors together and Death moves on
c. Max fights off Death and survives his illness
d. Max tries to go with Death but Death thinks it isn't his time

4. Why does Liesel cause an injury during a Himmel Street soccer game?
a. Liesel causes an injury so that she can stay home and take care of Max
b. Liesel causes an injury so that she can distract the Nazis inspecting houses
c. Liesel causes an injury so that she can get more attention from Rudy
d. Liesel causes an injury so that she can warn her parents of the Nazi inspection

SECTION V: Short answer responses

1. Why does the author include two of Death's diary entries in this part of the novel? How are
they effective in the text? evidence to support your answer.

2. How does the author build suspense in these chapters? What is the author building
suspense towards? Use examples to support your answer.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 26

 Part Seven Quiz

The Book Thief

SECTION I: Short answer responses

1. How does Part Seven capture the extremes of human kindness and human evil? As a
reader, what do you learn about this theme? Use evidence to support your answer.

2. What is Liesel’s “accordion”? How is it symbolic? What theme(s) does it connect to and what
do we learn about this theme? Use examples to support your answer.

3. What is the main conflict? What are the many effects of the main conflict in this part of the
novel? Use examples to support your answer.

4. How are the settings of basements important in the novel? What is similar about these
settings? Think of at least 3 aspects that are similar and explain. Use examples to support your
answer.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 27

 Part Eight Quiz

The Book Thief

SECTION I: Multiple-choice

1. In what way do we see Liesel’s feelings for Rudy grow from friendship to love?
a. We see her growing to love Rudy when he is allowed to stay and not attend officer
school
b. We see her growing to love Rudy when she shares Max’s sketchbook with him
c. We see her growing to love Rudy when she leaves bread in the road with him
d. We see her growing to love Rudy when she thinks of kissing him during a vulnerable
moment

2. Which of the following best summarizes the chapter “Dominoes and Darkness”?
a. The chapter is mostly about the Steiner family playing dominoes until Nazis come to
inspect Rudy
b. The chapter is mostly about the kids playing with dominoes while Alex Steiner is notified
that he is being drafted
c. The chapter is mostly about Rudy’s parents refusing to let him be taken by the Nazis
and the kids playing with dominoes
d. The chapter is mostly about Rudy’s parents persuading the Nazis to let Rudy stay and
the kids trying to find a light

3. What is the most likely reason Rosa holds on to and hugs Hans’ accordion?
a. Rosa holds and hugs the accordion because she loves and misses Hans
b. Rosa holds and hugs the accordion because she regrets dumping water on Hans
c. Rosa holds and hugs the accordion because she wanted to learn to play and missed her
chance
d. Rosa holds and hugs the accordion because she needs to sell it in order to buy food

4. How is Hans’ job during the war similar to Death’s work?

a. They both collect bodies and see death up close and firsthand
b. They both see the colors of death after the bombings
c. They both are covered with the ashes of leftover rubble and death
d. The both help comfort people that are on the verge of death

5. Which sentence represents the duality of Nazi Germany?

a. “How things had changed, from fruit stealer to bread giver.”
b. “She was torn between the obvious urge to see him – to know that he was still alive –
and an absence that could mean any number of things…”
c. “She heard his stomach growl – and he was giving people bread.”
d. “Once in a while she imagined him falling into a doorway of safety somewhere…”

6. What does Liesel struggle to communicate the most?

a. Liesel struggles to communicate her friendly feelings for Rudy
b. Liesel struggles to communicate her love to Rosa and Rudy
c. Liesel struggles to communicate her desire for Hans to not go to war
d. Liesel struggles to communicate her worry about Max’s fate
© 2017 LIT Lessons 28
SECTION II: EGten+e+ 8esponse

How does “The Word Shaker” connect with the novel? Explain at least five ways the novel and
story are similar and use evidence to support your answer.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 29

 Part Nine Quiz

The Book Thief

SECTION I: Mark true statements with a T, and false statements with an F

- Rudy steals a teddy bear from a house and gives it to a dying pilot.
- Ilsa Hermann catches Liesel stealing cookies and never opens the window again.
- Rosa hugs and holds Hans’ accordion to cope with her grief of his absence.
- Michael Holtzapfel is injured in Stalingrad and still suffers from his wound.
- Hans survives the war because another man forced him to switch seats.

SECTION II: Fill in the blank

1. Rudy’s hair is usually compared to or a .

2. Liesel has spent years at the Hubermann’s and is years old.

3. Rudy fills a with items to help his steal, and then to keep safe.

4. Death describes his heart as a , while human hearts are a .

5. is finally the person that is able to get Frau Holtzapfel to come to the

basement shelter.

SECTION III: Short answer responses

1. How does the author build suspense toward the climax of the novel? Explain two ways and
use examples to support your answer.

2. How is Rudy’s teddy bear symbolic in the novel? Explain the deeper meaning. Also, what
themes does the teddy bear connect to? What messages does it send? Use examples to
support your answer.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 30

 Part Ten Quiz

The Book Thief Part

SECTION I: Order the following events of the novel in chronological order

- Liesel recites “The Word Shaker” when she finds Max in a march to Dachau.
- Liesel tells Rudy about hiding Max in the basement and his sketchbook.
- Liesel writes “The Book Thief” in her basement.
- Himmel Street is bombed and Liesel is the only survivor.
- The Hermann’s take Liesel in and she accompanies Alex Steiner to work some
days.

SECTION II: Mark true statements with a T, and false statements with an F
- Liesel and Max reunite and eventually get married and live in Sydney.
- After the funerals, Liesel walks in to the Amper River muttering Rudy’s last
request for a kiss.
- Ilsa Hermann gives Liesel a notebook after Liesel rips up a book in her library.
- Liesel survives the bombing because she is in the basement instead of in bed.
- According to Death, Liesel loves Rudy the most.

SECTION III: Short answer responses

1. How do words save Liesel’s life and the lives of others? Explain two ways and use examples
to support your answer.

2. Analyze the plot of the novel. What is the main conflict and how does it develop over the
course of the novel? What is the climax? What is the resolution? Use examples to support your
answer.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 31

 Final Assessment

The Book Thief

Part I: Character Matching – Match the correct quote to the right character

a. “And please, don’t punish yourself, like you said you

1. Liesel Meminger would. Don’t be like me, Liesel.”

b. “I’m leaving soon…You know how it is – the army…It could

2. Rudy Steiner be worse…I could be you.”

c. “I’m so selfish…Leaving people behind. Coming here.

3. Hans Hubermann Putting all of you in danger…I’m sorry. Do you believe me? I’m
so sorry, I’m so sorry…”

4. Rosa Hubermann d. ”When was our Fuhrer, Adolf Hitler, born?”

e. “It suffices to say that at some point in time, I will be standing

5. Max Vandenburg over you, as genially as possible. Your soul will be in my arms.
A color will be perched on my shoulder.”

6. Death f. “You’re either for the Fuhrer or against him – and I can see
you’re against him. You always have been…It’s pathetic how a
man can stand by and do nothing as a whole nation cleans out
the garbage and makes itself great.”
7. Ilsa Hermann

g. “I was hoping to hear the rest of it in the shelter, but it looks like
we’re safe for now…So I want you to come to my place and read
8. Franz Deutscher it to me.”

h. “I should have known not to give the man some bread. I

9. Walter Kugler just didn’t think.”

i. “I didn’t take this man into my house to watch him

10. Frau Holtzapfel die. Understand?...Now go.”

j. “Goodbye, Saumensch…Good night, book thief.”

11. Hans Hubermann Jr.

k. “’Is it really you? The young man asked,’…Is it from your

cheek that I took the seed?’”
© 2017 LIT Lessons 32
Read the passage and answer questions 1-4 that follow. Part II – Multiple-Choice: Section I

He clenched his eyes. Then opened them. He slapped Liesel Meminger squarely in the face.
“Don't ever say that!” His voice was quiet, but sharp.
As the girl shook and sagged on the steps, he sat next to her and held his face in his hands.
It would be easy to say that he was just a tall man sitting poor-postured and shattered on
some church steps, but he wasn't. At the time, Liesel had no idea that her foster father,
Hans Hubermann, was contemplating one of the most dangerous dilemmas a German
citizen could face. Not only that, he'd been facing it for close to a year.
“Papa?”
The surprise in her voice rushed her, but it also rendered her useless. She wanted to run,
but she couldn't. She could take a Watschen from nuns and Rosas, but it hurt so much more
from Papa. The hands were gone from Papa's face now and he found the resolve to speak
again.
”You can say that in our house,” he said, looking gravely at Liesel's cheek. “But you
never say it on the street, at school, at the BDM, never!” He stood in front of her and lifted
her by the triceps. He shook her. “Do you hear me?”
With her eyes trapped open, Liesel nodded her compliance.
It was, in fact, a rehearsal for a future lecture, when all of Hans Hubermann's worst
fears arrived on Himmel Street later that year, in the early hours of a November morning.

1. How does the conflict in the above passage affect the characters?
a. Hans is desperate to get Liesel to agree with hiding Max so he hits her to get
her compliance
b. Hans is angry with Liesel and hits her to motivate her to support Hitler and be
an ideal German citizen
c. Hans is pained because he feels forced to hit Liesel for her comment even though
he agrees with her sentiment
d. Hans is shocked at himself for hitting Liesel and realizes the stress of living in
Nazi Germany is making him a bad person

2. What later events in the novel are foreshadowed in the passage above?
a. Hans Hubermann's enlistment and the search of their home
b. Hans Hubermann's assistance and collaboration with Walter for Max's arrival
c. Hans Hubermann's fight with his son and rejection from the Nazi Party
d. Hans Hubermann's whipping for giving bread to a Jewish man

3. Which of the following best describes the tone of the above passage?
a. Distressed
b. Apathetic
c. Expectant
d. Pessimistic

4. Why does the author most likely use a German word in the passage?
a. The author includes German to emphasize Hans' harsh character
b. The author includes German to show the power of words
c. The author includes German to help the reader learn the language
d. The author includes German to make the setting of the novel feel more authentic
© 2017 LIT Lessons 33
Read the passage and answer questions 5-8 that follow. Part II – Multiple-Choice: Section II

It happened so quickly.
The hand that held firmly on to Liesel's let it drop to her side as the man came struggling by.
She felt her palm slap her hip.
Papa reached into his paint cart and pulled something out. He made his way through
the people, onto the road.
The Jew stood before him, expecting another handful of derision, but he watched with
everyone else as Hans Hubermann held his hand out and presented a piece of bread, like
magic.
Liesel watched.
With tears in her eyes, she saw the man slide farther forward, pushing Papa back to cry
into his ankles.
Other Jews walked past, all of them watching this small, futile miracle. They streamed by,
like human water. That day, a few would reach the ocean. They would be handed a white cap.
Wading through, a soldier was soon at the scene of the crime. He studied the kneeling
man and Papa, and he looked at the crowd. After another moment's thought, he took the
whip from his belt and began.

5. How does the passage capture the duality of living in Nazi Germany?
a. A small act of kindness, like giving a piece of bread to a starving man, is
considered a crime
b. A small crime can result in severe physical punishment
c. A parade can end in torture if the spectators do not support the marchers
d. A suffering Jewish man cannot show his misery unless he wants to risk death

6. How is the following figurative language effective in the passage?

“…he watched with everyone else as Hans Hubermann held his hand out and presented a
piece of bread, like magic.”

a. The simile shows how the Jews cannot believe the kindness Hans is displaying
b. The simile shows how Hans is tricking the Jews into thinking he is being nice
c. The simile shows how Hans is performing a magic trick to cheer up the marchers
d. The simile shows how the Jews are excited to see the food they are being given

7. Which of the following sentences best connects with theme of mortality?

a. “With tears in her eyes, she saw the man slide farther forward, pushing Papa
back to cry into his ankles.”
b. “The hand that held firmly on to Liesel's let it drop to her side as the man
came struggling by.”
c. “After another moment's thought, he took the whip from his belt and began.”
d. “That day, a few would reach the ocean."

8. As used in the passage, what does the phrase “futile miracle” most likely mean?
a. The phrase means that the amazing act is small but extremely powerful
b. The phrase means that the amazing act is pointless in the end
c. The phrase means that the small act is life-changing
d. The phrase means that the small act is dangerous but appreciated

© 2017 LIT Lessons 34

Read the passage and answer questions 9-11 that follow. Part II – Multiple-Choice: Section III

A book floated down the Amper River. A boy jumped in, caught up to it, and held it in
his right hand. He grinned.
He stood waist-deep in the icy, Decemberish
water. “How about a kiss, Saumensch?” he said.
The surrounding air was a lovely, gorgeous, nauseating cold, not to mention the
concrete ache of the water, thickening from his toes to his hips.
How about a
kiss? How about
a kiss? Poor
Rudy…
In your visions, you see the sloppy edges of paper still stuck to his fingers. You see a
shivering blonde fringe. Preemptively, you conclude, as I would, that Rudy died that very same
day, of hypothermia. He did not. Recollections like those merely remind me that he was not
deserving of the fate that met him a little under two years later.
On many counts, taking a boy like Rudy was robbery – so much life, so much to live for –
yet somehow, I'm certain he would have loved to see the frightening rubble and the swelling of
the sky on the night he passed away. He'd have cried and turned and smiled if only he could
have seen the book thief on her hands and knees, next to his decimated body. He'd have been
glad to witness her kissing his dusty, bomb-hit lips.
Yes, I know it.
In the darkness of my dark-beating heart, I know. He'd have loved it, all
right. You see?
Even death has a heart.

9. Which sentence from the passage best conveys Death's attitude towards Rudy?
a. “On many counts, taking a boy like Rudy was robbery – so much life, so much
to live for –”
b. “He'd have been glad to witness her kissing his dusty, bomb-hit lips.”
c. “Poor Rudy…”
d. “In the darkness of my dark-beating heart, I know. He'd have loved it, all right.
You see? Even death has a heart.”

10. Based on the passage, what part of the plot does this event take place?
a. Climax
b. Exposition
c. Rising Action
d. Falling Action

11. How is Death's perspective effective in the following passage?

a. Death's perspective reveals his sympathetic and loving nature despite his
work and contributes to his attempt at a more hopeful tone
b. Death's perspective reveals Rudy's love for Liesel and how he dies for it
and contributes to the tragedy of Rudy's death
c. Death's perspective shows how Rudy dies trying to prove his love for Liesel
and contributes to Liesel's conflict of regret
d. Death's perspective shows his exhaustion and frustration with his job
and contributes to the anguished tone he uses throughout the novel
© 2017 LIT Lessons 35
Read the passage and answer questions 12-14 that follow. Part II – Multiple-Choice: Section IV

The Australian writer Markus Zusak's brilliant and hugely ambitious new young-adult
novel is startling in many ways, but the first thing many teenagers will notice is its length: 552
pages! It's one thing to write a long book about, say, a boy who happens across a dragon's
egg; it's quite another to write a long, achingly sad, intricately structured book about Nazi
Germany narrated by Death itself.
Readers are introduced to this Death-as-storyteller concept in a too-long invocation that
begins "The Book Thief." This is no Grim Reaper — we have here a kinder, gentler Death,
who feels sympathy for his victims. As Death himself puts it on Page 1: "I can be amiable.
Agreeable. Affable. And that's only the A's." Maybe so, but Death is so innocuous that he's not
very absorbing. Or affecting. His periodic soliloquies aren't the most effective moments of the
novel, and if he took an M.F.A. class, Death would doubtless be criticized for telling instead of
showing…
"The Book Thief" was published for adults in Zusak's native Australia, and I strongly
suspect it was written for adults. Adults will probably like it (this one did), but it's a great young-
adult novel. Many teenagers will find the story too slow to get going, which is a fair criticism.
But it's the kind of book that can be life-changing, because without ever denying the essential
amorality and randomness of the natural order, "The Book Thief" offers us a believable, hard-
won hope. That hope is embodied in Liesel, who grows into a good and generous person
despite the suffering all around her, and finally becomes a human even Death can love. -
Excerpt from The New York Times

12. What is the above passage mostly about?

a. The passage is mostly about how the novel is hopeful even though narrated
by Death
b. The passage is mostly about how the novel should only be read by adults
c. The passage is mostly about the value of the novel, its narration, and its ability
to affect readers
d. The passage is mostly about how the author of the critique hates Death as
the narrator

13. Which excerpts from the passage best supports the main idea? Pick two
answers.
a. “'The Book Thief' was published for adults in Zusak's native Australia, and I
strongly suspect it was written for adults…”
b. “The Australian writer Markus Zusak's brilliant and hugely ambitious new young-
adult novel is startling in many ways…”
c. “…it's quite another to write a long, achingly sad, intricately structured book
about Nazi Germany narrated by Death itself.”
d. “Readers are introduced to this Death-as-storyteller concept in a too-long
invocation that begins ‘The Book Thief.'”

14. Which sentence from the passage best conveys the author's attitude toward
the narrator and perspective used by the novel's author?
a. “This is no Grim Reaper — we have here a kinder, gentler Death, who
feels sympathy for his victims.”
b. “Many teenagers will find the story too slow to get going, which is a fair criticism.”
c. “As Death himself puts it on Page 1: "I can be amiable. Agreeable. Affable. And
that's only the A's.”
d. “His periodic soliloquies aren't the most effective moments of the novel…”
© 2017 LIT Lessons 36
 Student Answer Key

Part I – Character Matching: Write the answer to each question on the blank.

1. 4. 7. 10.

2. 5. 8.

3. 6. 9.

Part II – Multiple-Choice Sections I-IV: Write the answer to each question on the blank. Draw an
accordion for extra credit.

Section I Section II Section III Section IV

1. 5. 9. 12.

2. 6. 10. 13.

3. 7. 11. 14.

4. 8.

Part III: Short answer response: For the following questions, provide a complete answer and include
the required examples.

1. Analyze Point of View – Explain how the story would be different if the novel was told from
the perspective of Liesel. Identify and describe how 3 literary elements would change. Use at
least 2 examples. (4-5 sentences)

2. Analyze Plot – Based on the novel, explain the main conflict, including what type of conflict it is.
Then, explain how that conflict is developed throughout the rising action and explain the climax.
Finally, explain the story’s conclusion. (4-5 sentences)

© 2017 LIT Lessons 37

3. Analyze Foreshadowing – How does the author use foreshadowing in the novel? How does it
affect a reader's experience and understanding of the story? Provide two examples from the text and
draw a book for a point of extra credit.

4. Analyze Symbol – Which symbol also functions as figurative language? What are the effects of
this symbol? What is the deeper meaning of the symbol? Use at least 2 examples to support your
answer.

5. Analyze Author’s Purpose – Explain the structure of the novel. How does the novel's structure
contribute to the reader's understanding of the story? Support with at least 2 details to support
your answer.

6. Analyze Theme – Explain a theme that is developed through the conflict, setting, and a symbol.
Explain how these literary elements contribute to the theme. What message does the author want
the reader to learn through this theme? Provide 2 quotes from the text to support your answer.
© 2017 LIT Lessons 38
 Essay 1

The Book Thief Final Essay

Essay Analysis (TDA): How does the author organize the novel? Revisit point of view, narrator, and
how the story was written. Then, explain how the organization is effective. Support with evidence from
the text. Use evidence from the novel to support your response. Write a Text-Dependent Analysis
essay (5-paragraph minimum) with thesis, topics, and quotes for all the body paragraphs.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 39

 Essay 2

The Book Thief Final Essay

Essay Analysis (TDA): We see many courageous acts in the novel. Which act is the most
courageous? Why? Use evidence from the novel to support your response. Write a Text-Dependent
Analysis essay (5-paragraph minimum) with thesis, topics, and quotes for all the body paragraphs.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 40

 Essay 3

The Book Thief Final Essay

Essay Analysis (TDA): Life in Nazi Germany seems all backwards for the characters of the novel.
Choose several themes that highlight how living in Nazi Germany results in paradoxical norms and
rules. Use evidence from the novel to support your response. Write a Text-Dependent Analysis
essay (5-paragraph minimum) with thesis, topics, and quotes for all the body paragraphs.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 41

 Essay 4

The Book Thief Final Essay

Essay Analysis (TDA): The author’s decision to cast Death as the narrator has resulted in polarizing
opinions. Is Death’s narration effective? Why or why not? Use evidence from the novel to support your
response. Write a Text-Dependent Analysis essay (5-paragraph minimum) with thesis, topics, and
quotes for all the body paragraphs.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 42

 Essay 5

The Book Thief Final Essay

Essay Analysis (TDA): Does the novel contribute to your understanding of WWII and the Holocaust?
Or does it not sufficiently address the issues of the time? Why? Use evidence from the novel to support
your response. Write a Text-Dependent Analysis essay (5-paragraph minimum) with thesis, topics, and
quotes for all the body paragraphs.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 43

 Exit Tickets

Name: Date:

On a scale of 1 to 10, how hard did you work today? (Circle your number)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Question of the day (use back if needed):

/ 15

Name: Date:

On a scale of 1 to 10, how hard did you work today? (Circle your number)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Question of the day (use back if needed):

/ 15

Name: Date:

On a scale of 1 to 10, how hard did you work today? (Circle your number)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Question of the day (use back if needed):

/ 15

© 2017 LIT Lessons 44

 Unit Reflection

Final Reflection

Directions: Answer the following questions about the unit to the best of your ability. Be open and
honest.

1. What are you most proud of this unit? What were some successes you had? Explain with examples.

2. What did you struggle with this unit? What did you need help with? Explain with examples.

3. What did you learn this unit? What do you want to learn more about? Less about? Explain
with examples.

4. What would you want to spend more time on? What would you like to spend less time on?
Explain with examples.

5. What did you learn about yourself over the course of the unit? Explain with examples.

6. What changes to the unit would you suggest for next year’s classes? Give examples!

7. Any other feedback?

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 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes – ANSWER KEY
1. Prologue Quiz Questions
1. When does the narrator think people observe the colors of the day? Beginning
and end

2. Who are the two people that die in the first chapters? Small boy, pilot

3. What are the three colors the narrator associates with the book thief? Red,
white, black

2. Arrival on Himmel – Growing Up a Saumensch Quiz Questions

1. What book does Liesel steal? Grave Digger’s Handbook

2. What does Himmel mean in English? Heaven

3. What instrument does Hans play? Accordion

3. The Woman with the Iron Fist – The Kiss Quiz Questions
1. What does Rosa do for work? Ironing and laundry

2. What game do the kids play on Himmel Street? Soccer

3. What does Rudy challenge Liesel to do? Why? 100 meter dash, for a kiss

4. The Jesse Owens Incident – The Other Side of Sandpaper Quiz Questions
1. What does Rudy do that gets him into trouble? Colors himself black and pretends
to be Jesse Owens

2. What happens with Liesel that prompts the midnight classes? Wets the bed

3. What does Liesel do first to learn how to read? Learn the alphabet

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 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes

5. The Smell of Friendship – The Heavyweight Champion of the School-Yard

Quiz Questions
1. What are the two smells of friendship? Kerosene and cigarettes

2. What does Liesel read in front of the class? Grave Digger’s Handbook

3. What does Sister Maria do to Liesel when she misbehaves? Beats her

6. A Girl Made of Darkness – The Town Walker Quiz Questions

1. Approximately how long did it take for Liesel to steal another book? Over a
year, 463 days

2. What presents does Liesel receive at Christmas? 2 books

3. Why does Rosa make Liesel run all the laundry errands now? Rosa thinks
the people won’t fire Liesel – they’ll pity her

7. Dead Letters – Hitler’s Birthday, 1940 Quiz Questions

1. What birthday present does Liesel give herself? Mails the letters

2. What are the names of the Hubermann’s children? Trudy and Hans Jr.

3. Why does Liesel have to go to the Hitler birthday celebration? All Hitler
Youth must go

8. 100 Percent Pure German Sweat – Book of Fire Quiz Questions

1. Who sees Liesel steal the book from the pile? Ilsa Hermann (the mayor’s wife)

2. Who does Liesel help during the book-burning event? Ludwig Schmeikl

3. What is the name of the book Liesel steals? The Shoulder Shrug

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 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes

9. The Way Home – Enter the Struggler Quiz Questions

1. What book does Hans buy? Mein Kampf

2. How does the mayor’s wife react to Liesel book thievery? Shows her the library

3. Who is coming to the Hubermann household? Why? Max, needs

protection because he is Jewish

10. The Attributes of Summer – The Aryan Shopkeeper Quiz Questions

1. What is one attribute of the summer? The Shoulder Shrug, mayor’s
library, soccer, stealing apples

2. What happened to Ilsa Hermann’s son? Died in WWI, stuck in barbed wire

3. What do Liesel and Rudy buy with the money they find? Candy

11. The Struggler, Continued – The Struggler, Concluded Quiz Questions

1. What does Max do right before he leaves his hiding closet? Shaves and cuts
his hair

2. How do Rudy and Liesel steal from Otto Sturm? Make ice so his bike slips

3. How do Rudy and Liesel get money for mixed candy at Frau Diller’s?
Sell chestnuts

12. The Accordionist – A Good Girl Quiz Questions

1. How does Hans survive WWI? Doesn’t go into battle, writes letters

2. What does Hans give the Vandenburg family before he leaves? Paper with
name and address

3. In 1933, why does Hans lose painting business? Reputation for kindness
to Jewish people

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 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes

13. A Short History of the Jewish Fist Fighter – Liesel’s Lecture Quiz Questions
1. How does Max meet Walter Kugler? Fist fighting

2. How long does Max stay in hiding? 2 years

3. How does Rosa respond to Max’s arrival? Feeds him pea soup

14. The Sleeper – The Swapping of Nightmares Quiz Questions

1. Where do Hans and Rosa move Max when it’s too cold in the basement?
Bedroom, next to fireplace

2. What book is Liesel reading in the Hermann library? The Whistler

3. What does Max have nightmares about? Leaving his family, not saying a
final goodbye

15. Pages From the Basement Quiz Questions

1. How does Max draw himself in “The Standover Man”? A bird

2. Who is the “standover man” in Max’s story? Liesel

3. What does Max write his story on? Mein Kampf

16. The Floating Book (Part I) – The Gamblers Quiz Questions

1. What image does Max paint on the basement wall? Sun, tightrope, himself and
Liesel

2. What do the Hubermann’s, Liesel, and Max do in the basement together?

Paint pages of Hitler’s book

3. Why does Liesel confront Ilsa Hermann? The Hermann’s fire Rosa

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 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes

17. Rudy’s Youth – Sketches Quiz Questions

1. Why does Rudy get in trouble at Hitler Youth? Sticks up for Tommy

2. Who is the new leader of the stealing group? Viktor Chemmel

3. How does Max spend most of his time in the basement now? Sketches,
drawings on painted pages of Hitler’s book

18. The Whistler and the Shoes Quiz Questions

1. What is Rudy forced to do at the last Hitler Youth session? Roll in fertilizer

2. What does Liesel steal and from whom? Book from mayor’s library

3. What does Rudy forget after Liesel successfully steals? Liesel’s shoes

19. Three Acts of Stupidity by Rudy Steiner – The Floating Book (Part II) Quiz
Questions
1. What does Rudy try to steal at the market? Biggest potato

2. Who sticks up for Rudy at the market? Herr Link, his teacher

3. What does Rudy do that results in Franz Deutscher beating him up? Throws a
rock at him

20. Death’s Diary: 1942 – Thirteen Presents Quiz Questions

1. Why does Death complain in his diary entry? Overworked, too many deaths

2. What do the Hubermann’s, Liesel, and Max do to celebrate Christmas?

Snowball fight, build a snowman

3. Name 3 presents Liesel gives Max. Soccer ball, ribbon, pinecone, button, stone,
feather, 2 newspapers, candy wrapper, cloud, toy soldier, leaf, read book, tears

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 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes

21. Fresh Air, An Old Nightmare, and What to Do with a Jewish Corpse – Death’s
Diary: Cologne Quiz Questions
1. What book does Liesel steal from the mayor’s library? The Dream Carrier

2. What does Rosa accuse Liesel of stealing at home? Hairbrush

3. What do kids collect in the town nearby Cologne? Empty fuel tanks

22. The Visitor – Death’s Diary: The Parisians Quiz Questions

1. Why do Nazis visit Liesel’s house? Measure their basement for a bomb shelter

2. What does Liesel do to warn her parents of the Nazis’ approach? Causes an injury

3. Where is Death collecting so many Jewish people? Death camps

23. Champagne and Accordions – The Trilogy Quiz Questions

1. Why does Hans business start to get busy again? Windows need to be painted in
case of a bombing

2. What are the three events that make ”The Trilogy”? Races, stealing a
book, getting a dictionary

3. What two things does Ilsa give Liesel? Dictionary and letter

24. The Sound of Sirens – Frau Holtzapfel’s Offer Quiz Questions

1. What does Liesel do that calms everyone during the air raid? Reads The Whistler

2. How long has Max been in the Hubermann basement? 22 months

3. What is Frau Holtzapfel willing to stop if Liesel will read to her? Spitting on the
door

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 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes

25. The Long Walk to Dachau – The Idiot and the Coat Men Quiz Questions
1. What does Hans try to give the Jewish man on the march? Bread

2. What is the immediate consequence of that act? Both are whipped

3. Who do the Nazi men come for at the end of the reading? Rudy

26. The Dominoes and Darkness – Punishment Quiz Questions

1. Why do the Nazis want to take Rudy? Recruit to elite officer school

2. What does Rudy keep secret until the Nazis’ visit? Physical, examination

3. What happens to Hans and Alex Steiner due to their “rebellious” actions?
Drafted into the army

27. The Promise Keeper’s Wife – The Collector Quiz Questions

1. What does Rosa do to wake Hans up from his hangover? Dumps water on him

2. What does Alex Steiner get assigned to do during the war? Mend clothing

3. What is Hans’ job during the war? Clean up after air raids, put out fires, and
collect bodies

28. The Bread Eaters – The Anarchist’s Suit Collection Quiz Questions
1. What does Liesel dream of after she reads “The Word Shaker”? The tree

2. Where does the seed for the word shaker’s tree come from? A tear

3. What do Rudy and Liesel do in Rudy’s father’s shop? Steal a suit

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 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes

29. The Next Temptation – The Ageless Brother Quiz Questions

1. What does Ilsa leave for Liesel and Rudy? Cookies

2. What happens to Michael’s brother Robert? Dies, legs blown off

3. What does Rosa learn about her son? He’s still alive last Michael heard

30. The Accident – Homecoming Quiz Questions

1. What injury does Hans suffer from in the accident? Broken leg

2. What does Rudy leave in the street when he fails to steal? Socks

3. What does Rudy give the enemy pilot? Teddy bear

31. The End of the World (Part I) – The War Maker Quiz Questions
1. Why does Liesel survive the bombing? Writing in the basement

2. What has happened to Max? Captured by Nazis

3. What happens to Michael Holtzapfel? Hangs himself

32. Way of the Words – Ilsa Hermann’s Little Black Book Quiz Questions
1. How does Liesel give Max strength and love when she sees him? Recites
“The Word Shaker”

2. After Rudy reads Max’s sketchbook, what is he surprised by? Liesel told
Max about Rudy

3. What does Liesel do in the Hermann library? Rips up a book

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 Chapter Set Comprehension Quizzes
33. The Rib-Cage Planes – The End of the World (Part II) Quiz Questions
1. What does Liesel do with the black book Ilsa gives to her? Writes “The
Book Thief”

2. What does Liesel imagine Hans doing when she finds his body? Plays
the accordion

3. What does Liesel do when she finds Rudy’s body? Gives him a kiss

34. Epilogue Quiz Questions

1. Who takes Liesel in after the bombing? The Hermann’s

2. What does Liesel refuse to do after the bombing? Bathe

3. What happens to Max after the war? Finds Liesel

© 2017 LIT Lessons 54

 Comprehension and Literary Quizzes – ANSWER KEYS

The Book Thief Part One Quiz – ANSWER KEY

SECTION I: Order the following events of the novel in chronological order

5 - Liesel beats up a kid in the school yard that make fun of her.
3 - Liesel comes to Himmel Street to live with the Hubermann’s.
1 - Rudy pretends to be Jesse Owens and covers himself in charcoal.
2 - Liesel’s brother Werner dies.
4 - Liesel meets the neighborhood kids, and Rudy asks for a kiss.

SECTION II: Mark true statements with a T, and false statements with an F
T - Liesel does not bathe for two weeks when she arrives on Himmel Street.
F - Hans Hubermann supports the Nazi Party and its politics.
T - Rosa Hubermann constantly curses at Liesel and Hans.
T - Liesel steals her first book – Grave Digger’s Handbook.
F - Liesel loves the Grave Digger’s Handbook because it reminds her of her
mother and father.

SECTION III: Fill in the blank SECTION V: Short answer responses

1. Molching 1. What is the main conflict of the novel so far? What type
of conflict is it and how do we see it affect the
2. Communist characters? Use examples to support your answer.
• The main conflict is Nazi Germany – the start of WWII.
3. Silver The conflict is person vs. society. The conflict results
in Liesel’s adoption, rationing of food, and the threat of
4. Kindergarten harm if one does not support the party.

5. Kiss 2. We see many instances of love. Explain how two

different characters show their love. What does the
SECTION IV: Multiple-choice reader learn as a result? Use examples to support your
answer.
1. D • Answers will vary based on character choice. Hans –
2. A teaches Liesel to read, comforts her at night, and is
3. C generally kind to her. Rudy – he comforts her when
4. B she’s sad, they play soccer together, and he is
5. A desperate to kiss her. Rosa – takes Liesel on her
laundry runs, swears at her, and makes sure she
has the basic necessities.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 55

 The Book Thief Part Two Quiz – ANSWER KEY

SECTION I: Order the following events of the novel in chronological order

2 - Liesel starts to deliver the laundry herself since Rosa thinks they wont’ fire a girl.
4 - Liesel and Hans attend a book-burning event in honor of Hitler.
5 - Liesel steal a book when the event is over and hides it in her coat.
1 - Liesel receives two books for Christmas.
3 - Liesel takes washing money and mails the rest of her letters to her mother.

SECTION II: Mark true statements with a T, and false statements with an F
F - Hans slaps Liesel when she claims that she doesn’t love her foster parents.
F - Liesel helps Rudy during the book-burning event because he hurt his ankle.
T - Hans trades his cigarette rations for the two books to give to Liesel
for Christmas.
T - Hans Jr. calls his father a coward for not supporting and helping the Nazi cause.
F - The Hubermann’s get in trouble for not hanging the Nazi flag during the
Hitler birthday event.

SECTION III: Fill in the blank

SECTION V: Short answer responses
1. What is Hans main conflict? How does that
1. Trudy/Trudel
conflict affect him, his family, and Liesel? Use
2. The Shoulder Shrug examples to support your answer.
• Hans’ main conflict is his disgust and disapproval of
3. Stalingrad the Nazi Party and its politics. It creates conflict with
his son, it puts his family in danger, and it prompts him
to slap Liesel in an effort to protect her. He also is
4. Coward
unsure how to become part of the party but preserve
his morals.
5. Communist
2. Words are powerful. Explain how the Nazis use words
SECTION IV: Multiple-choice as power. Then, explain how Liesel sees words as
power. How is it different? Use examples to support your
1. C answer.
2. A • Nazis use words to for harm – to persuade and
3. B influence others to support persecution and
4. A discrimination. Liesel sees words as a source of hope
5. D and comfort. While the Nazi Party uses words for
evil, Liesel sees words’ power for good.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 56

 The Book Thief Part Three Quiz – ANSWER KEY

SECTION I: Fill in the blank

1. Walter Kugler

2. Papers

3. Arthur Berg

4. Chestnuts

5. Priests

SECTION II: Multiple-choice

1. A
2. D
3. C
4. B
5. B
6. C
7. B
8. D

SECTION III: Short answer responses

1. What is the connection between suffering and guilt in these chapters? Think of at least
two examples and explain using evidence to support your answer.
• Characters in these chapters suffer, and as a result, they do things that result in feelings
of guilt. For instance, Rudy and Liesel rob Otto because of their hunger. But they feel
guilty about their actions. Also, Max suffers as a Jew in Nazi Germany, but he feels guilty
for the danger he puts other people in.

2. What does the book Mein Kampf symbolize? Explain two deeper meanings. Use
examples to support your answer.
• The book symbolizes the cruelty and horror of the Nazis. It’s their source of power to
persecute and discriminate against others they believe to be impure. On the other hand,
the books acts as a shield and lifeline to Max as he travels to Molching. It hides his
identity and saves his life.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 57

 The Book Thief Part Four Quiz

SECTION I: Fill in the blank

1. Erik Vandenburg.

2. Fist fighting

3. Basement;Bedroom/Living room

4. Burn her books

5. Twigs; Feathers

SECTION II: Multiple-choice

1. B
2. C
3. B
4. A
5. D
6. C
7. B
8. A

SECTION III: Short answer responses

1. How do we see Max’s “fighter” identity in these chapters? Think of at least two ways
and explain using evidence to support your answer.
• Max’s “fighter” identity can be seen by his ability to endure immense suffering. He
endures hiding and starvation for two years. He battles his feelings of guilt and shame. He
has the courage to make it to Molching and trust Hans.

2. In what ways does Rosa change in Part Four of the novel? Explain at least two ways
and use examples to support your answer.
• Rosa is not as much of a “cardboard” woman. She doesn’t curse as much and she isn’t as
harsh. She takes bad news more mildly, and she’s extremely helpful in hiding Max.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 58

 The Book Thief Part Five Quiz – ANSWER KEY

SECTION I: Fill in the blank

1. The Whistler

2. Herr Link, teacher

3. Hitler’s birthday

4. Newspapers

5. Fires Rosa

SECTION II: Multiple-choice

1. A
2. D
3. B
4. C
5. B

SECTION III: Short answer responses

1. How do we see the power of words to do harm or heal in Part Five? Think of at least two
instances and explain the harm they cause or the healing they do using evidence to
support your answer.
• Liesel uses words to ease Max’s suffering in the basement. She describes the weather so
he can “see” it. Liesel also uses words to hurt Ilsa Hermann. Liesel even sees the words
do physical harm to her.

2. In what ways do we see the theme of suffering in Part Five? How do the characters
cope with their suffering? Use examples to support your answer.
• We see Rudy suffer at Hitler Youth. The kids also suffer from hunger. Max suffers from
loneliness and persecution in the basement. The kids deal with their suffering by
stealing. Max copes by writing/sketching stories

3. How are Max’s boxing matches with Hitler symbolic? What do they represent? Explain
and support with examples.
• Max’s fist fights with Hitler symbolize society’s treatment of Jews like himself. It shows how
persuasive words can move people to do wrong and follow dangerous leaders. The
matches also symbolize Max’s fight to survive and overcome his conflicts.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 59

 The Book Thief Part Six Quiz – ANSWER KEY

SECTION I: Order the following events of the novel in chronological order

2 - Liesel steals The Dream Carrier and reads it to Max.
3 - Rosa comes to school to yell at Liesel for the hairbrush and tell her about Max.
1 - Hans, Liesel, and Max have a snowball fight in the basement.
5 - A Nazi Party member checks the Hubermann basement for its height.
4 - Liesel causes an injury during the soccer game.

SECTION II: Mark true statements with a T, and false statements with an F
F - The Hubermann household is going to be used as a bomb shelter.
T - Liesel gives Max a ruined soccer ball, a feather, and a toy soldier when
he’s sick.
T - Max is moved into Liesel’s room when he is sick.
F - Death tells of the bombing of Munich in one of his diary entries.
T - Liesel’s dream changes from her brother’s face to Max’s.

SECTION III: Match the quote with correct character

1. C Liesel

2. F Hans SECTION IV: Multiple-choice

1. A
3. D Rosa
2. B
3. C
4. A Max
4. D
5. B Rudy

6. E Death
SECTION V: Short answer responses
1. Why does the author include two of Death’s diary entries in this part of the novel? How
are they effective in the text? evidence to support your answer.
• The author includes the diary entries to provide information on world events. Liesel’s
story would not be able to provide the broader context, so the author includes Death’s
diary entries to help create context around the book’s events.

2. How does the author build suspense in these chapters? What is the author
building suspense towards? Use examples to support your answer.
• The author slowly builds suspense through the events. First Max gets sick, then Death
foreshadows Himmel getting bombed, and finally, the Nazis come to inspect basements.
The author is building suspense towards the climax – the bombing of Himmel Street.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 60

 The Book Thief Part Seven Quiz – ANSWER KEY

SECTION I: Short answer responses

1. How does Part Seven capture the extremes of human kindness and human evil? As
a reader, what do you learn about this theme? Use evidence to support your answer.
• This part of the novel captures the kindest of times and the evilest of times. Hans
demonstrates the kindest of humanity in a number of ways. He paints windows for
practically free and he offers piece of bread to a suffering marcher. On the other hand, we
see the evil of humanity through the Nazis treatment of the Jews and the potential evil that
results in war due to bombings. The reader learns that kindness is so much more
powerful. Answers will vary. For full credit, quotes should relate to this idea.

2. What is Liesel’s “accordion”? How is it symbolic? What theme(s) does it connect to

and what do we learn about this theme? Use examples to support your answer.
• Liesel’s “accordion” is her ability to use words. She uses it to ease the suffering of those in
the basement just like she did to nurse Max back to health. It symbolizes comfort and
kindness. We learn that words can be used to comfort those that face immense
suffering. For full credit, quotes should relate to this idea.

3. What is the main conflict? What are the many effects of the main conflict in this part of
the novel? Use examples to support your answer.
• The main conflict is Nazi Germany – the country’s politics and its war. It is the source of
so much poverty in Molching, the air raids, the march, Hans’ bread incident, Max’s
departure, and Rudy’s impending encounter with the Party. For full credit, quotes should
relate to this idea.

4. How are the settings of basements important in the novel? What is similar about these
settings? Think of at least 3 aspects that are similar and explain. Use examples to
support your answer.
• Basements are an important source of safety, love, and creativity. They are a place to hide
- Max and the neighbors from bombs. The Hubermann family gives Max love by hiding
him, and Liesel reads in the basement to ease fearful companions. The basements are a
place of secrecy and a way to escape the dire and horrific world of Nazi Germnay. For full
credit, quotes should relate to this idea.

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 The Book Thief Part Eight Quiz – ANSWER KEY

SECTION I: Multiple-choice

1. D
2. C
3. A
4. A
5. C
6. B

SECTION II: Extended Response

How does “The Word Shaker” connect with the novel? Explain at least five ways they are
similar and use evidence to support your answer.

• Answers will vary depending on similarities. Options can be as follows

• Characters – Liesel and Max/word shaker and friend
• Themes – Power of words, friendship, easing suffering, courage
• Setting – Nazi Germany, laws, persecution
• Conflict – Both characters fight against Hitler and his laws
• Symbols – Tear, Nazi symbols of hate in both

© 2017 LIT Lessons 62

 The Book Thief Part Nine Quiz – ANSWER KEY

SECTION I: Mark true statements with a T, and false statements with an F

F - Rudy steals a teddy bear from a house and gives it to a dying pilot.
F - Ilsa Hermann catches Liesel stealing cookies and never opens the
window again.
T - Rosa hugs and holds Hans’ accordion to cope with her grief of his absence.
T - Michael Holtzapfel is injured in Stalingrad and still suffers from his wound.
T - Hans survives the war because another man forced him to switch seats.

SECTION II: Fill in the blank

1. Lemons, candle

2. 4, 14

3. Toolbox

4. circle, line

5. Liesel

SECTION III: Short answer responses

1. How does the author build suspense toward the climax of the novel? Explain two ways
and use examples to support your answer.
• The author builds suspense through the conflict and setting. The conflict of war
approaches slowly but surely, which indicates that the end is near for the Himmel Street
residents. Also, the setting of war and Nazi Germany conveys an atmosphere of
suspense as defeat seems imminent.

2. How is Rudy’s teddy bear symbolic in the novel? Explain the deeper meaning. Also,
what themes does the teddy bear connect to? What messages does it send? Use
examples to support your answer.
• The teddy bear symbolizes comfort and kindness. The teddy bear connects to themes of
easing suffering and the extremeness of humanity. The message is that to ease a
person’s suffering is a great act of kindness. Also, it shows that humans are capable of
great evil and great kindness.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 63

 The Book Thief Part Ten Quiz – ANSWER KEY

SECTION I: Order the following events of the novel in chronological order

1 - Liesel recites “The Word Shaker” when she finds Max in a march to Dachau.
2 - Liesel tells Rudy about hiding Max in the basement and his sketchbook.
3 - Liesel writes “The Book Thief” in her basement.
4 - Himmel Street is bombed and Liesel is the only survivor.
5 - The Hermann’s take Liesel in and she accompanies Alex Steiner to work
some days.

SECTION II: Mark true statements with a T, and false statements with an F
F - Liesel and Max reunite and eventually get married and live in Sydney.
T - After the funerals, Liesel walks in to the Amper River muttering Rudy’s
last request for a kiss.
T - Ilsa Hermann gives Liesel a notebook after Liesel rips up a book in her library.
T - Liesel survives the bombing because she is in the basement instead of in bed.
F - According to Death, Liesel loves Rudy the most.

SECTION III: Short answer responses

1. How do words save Liesel’s life and the lives of others? Explain two ways and
use examples to support your answer.
• Words save Liesel’s life in a variety of ways. When she first comes to Himmel Street,
Hans teaches her how to read, which saves her from the brewing hatred and anger over
her losses. Then, words save her from the bombing since she is in the basement writing
and revising. Also, words save Max; Liesel gives him strength when she recites his story.

2. Analyze the plot of the novel. What is the main conflict and how does it develop over
the course of the novel? What is the climax? What is the resolution? Use examples to
support your answer.
• The main conflict is Nazi Germany laws, politics, and war. This conflict creates many
other conflicts throughout the novel – hiding Max, stealing, going to war, death, etc – and
drives the plot until the climax. The climax is when Himmel is bombed and Liesel is the
only survivor. The war ends quickly after and Liesel lives with the Hermann’s. Eventually,
Max and Liesel reunite, and Liesel dies many years later from old age.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 64

 Final Literary Assessment – ANSWER KEY

ASSESSMENT ANSWER KEY

Part I – Character Matching: Write the answer to each question on the blank.

1. K
2. J
3. H
4. I
5. C
6. E
7. A
8. D
9. B
10. G
11. F

Part II – Multiple Choice: Write the answer to each question on the blank. Draw an accordion for extra
credit.

1. C 11. A
2. B 12. C
3. A 13. B, C
4. D 14. D
5. A
6. A
7. D
8. B
9. A
10. C

© 2017 LIT Lessons 65

Part III: Short answer response: For the following questions, provide a complete answer and include
the required examples.

1. Analyze Point of View – Explain how the story would be different if the novel was told from
the perspective of Liesel. Identify and describe how 3 literary elements would change. Use at
least 2 examples. (4-5 sentences)
• The story would be different in several ways. First, the conflict would only relate to Liesel’s
struggles; we would not have as much insight into the war and Nazi Germany laws and politics.
The tone of the novel would also probably be drastically different. Death maintains a dreadfully
hopeful tone, but Liesel’s narration would be more varied and possibly less sophisticated
depending on when she tells the story – youth or adulthood. Other themes may take center stage if
Liesel only told the story, such as her secret identity. For full credit, answer should include
quotes/examples related to this idea.

2. Analyze Plot – Based on the novel, explain the main conflict, and also include what type of
conflict it is. Then, explain how that conflict is developed throughout the rising action and explain the
climax. Finally, explain the story’s conclusion. (4-5 sentences)
• Answers may vary. The main conflict is the Hubermann’s and Liesel’s fight against Nazi
Germany. The conflict develops as they hide Max, Hans is sent to war, Liesel finds Max is
captured, etc. The climax is when Himmel Street is bombed and Liesel is the only survivor. For
full credit, answer should include quotes/examples related to this idea.

3. Analyze Foreshadowing – How does the author use foreshadowing in the novel? How does it
affect a reader’s experience and understanding of the story? Provide two examples from the text
and draw a book for a point of extra credit.
• Answers may vary. The author uses foreshadowing throughout the novel. Although the
foreshadowing may seem to take away from the suspense of the novel, it actually contributes to
it. It provides a preview of what comes later, but then builds intrigue in how events unfold. For full
credit, answer should include quotes/examples related to this idea.

4. Analyze Symbol – Which symbol also function as figurative language? What are the effects of this
symbol? What is the deeper meaning of the symbol? Use at least 2 examples to support your
answer.
• The symbol of colors functions as figurative language. The colors connect human life to nature
and also contribute to the tone of the novel. For full credit, answer should include quotes/examples
related to this idea.

5. Analyze Author’s Purpose – Explain the structure of the novel. How does the novel’s structure
contribute to the reader’s understanding of the story? Support with at least 2 details to support
your answer.
• The novel is a book within a book. Death recounts Liesel’s story “The Book Thief” and provides
his own anecdotes throughout. Answers may vary. For full credit, answer should include
quotes/examples related to this idea.

6. Analyze Theme – Explain a theme that is developed through the conflict, setting, and a symbol.
Explain how these literary elements contribute to the theme. What message does the author want
the reader to learn through this theme? Provide 2 quotes from the text to support your answer.
• Answers may vary. The power of words is developed through these three literary elements. The
source of the conflict comes from the use of words to foster hate. The setting of Nazi Germany
cultivates that hate and the basement is where Liesel and Max use words to fight against it. The
symbol of books is used to support the positive power of words. The author wants the reader to
learn that words can be used for good or bad, but to use them for good is the ultimate human
act. For full credit, answer should include quotes/examples related to this idea.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 66

1. Essay Analysis (TDA): How does the author organize the novel? Revisit point of view,
narrator, and how the story was written. Then, explain how the organization is effective.
Support with evidence from the text. Use evidence from the novel to support your
response. Write a Text-Dependent Analysis essay (5-paragraph minimum) with thesis,
topics, and quotes for all the body paragraphs.

Depending on your expectations for essays, answers will vary.

The topics of the essay can be the following: Book within a book, wider perspective on
WWII events, ability to flashback and flash forward, mortality theme, foreshadowing

Students may include a topic not listed above.

2. Essay Analysis (TDA): We see many courageous acts in the novel. Which act is the
most courageous? Why? Use evidence from the novel to support your response. Write a
Text- Dependent Analysis essay (5-paragraph minimum) with thesis, topics, and quotes for
all the body paragraphs.

Depending on your expectations for essays, answers will vary.

The topic of the essay can be any one of the following: Hans giving bread, Hubermann’s
hiding Max, Liesel reciting Max’s story when he’s marching, Walter hiding Max,
Steiner’s not allowing Rudy to go to the elite school, Liesel stealing books

Students may include a topic not listed above.

3. Essay Analysis (TDA): Life in Nazi Germany seems all backwards for the characters of
the novel. Choose several themes that highlight how living in Nazi Germany results in
paradoxical norms and rules. Use evidence from the novel to support your response. Write
a Text-Dependent Analysis essay (5-paragraph minimum) with thesis, topics, and quotes for
all the body paragraphs.

Depending on your expectations for essays, answers will vary.

The topic of the essay can be any one of the following: Kindness and cruelty of humans,
duality of living in Nazi Germany, power of words, suffering and guilt (to save life, you
suffer from survivor’s remorse, mortality (the living have the hard part of surviving
loss of loved ones)

Students may include a topic not listed above.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 67

4. Essay Analysis (TDA): The author’s decision to cast Death as the narrator has resulted
in polarizing opinions. Is Death’s narration effective? Why or why not? Use evidence from the
novel to support your response. Write a Text-Dependent Analysis essay (5-paragraph
minimum) with thesis, topics, and quotes for all the body paragraphs.

Depending on your expectations for essays, answers will vary.

The topics of the essay can be the following: Foreshadowing, flash forward and
flashbacks, themes of mortality and war

Students may include a topic not listed above.

5. Essay Analysis (TDA): Does the novel contribute to your understanding of WWII and
the Holocaust? Or does it not sufficiently address the issues of the time? Why? Use
evidence from the novel to support your response. Write a Text-Dependent Analysis essay
(5- paragraph minimum) with thesis, topics, and quotes for all the body paragraphs.

Depending on your expectations for essays, answers will vary.

The topic of the essay can be any one of the following: Air raids, marches, concentration
camps, Hitler Youth, book burnings, hiding Jews, Nazi Party politics, submission

Students may include a topic not listed above.

© 2017 LIT Lessons 68

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