Page 63 - The Book Thief

I didnt know that. Do you have to pay to be Jewish? Do you need a license?

No, Rudy. Mr. Steiner was steering the bike with one hand and Rudy with the
other. He was having trouble steering the conversation. He still hadnt
relinquished the hold on his sons earlobe. Hed forgotten about it. Its like youre
German or Catholic.

Oh. Is Jesse Owens Catholic?

I dont know! He tripped on a bike pedal then and released the ear.

They walked on in silence for a while, until Rudy said, I just wish I was like
Jesse Owens, Papa.

This time, Mr. Steiner placed his hand on Rudys head and explained, I know,
sonbut youve got beautiful blond hair and big, safe blue eyes. You should be

happy with that; is that clear?

But nothing was clear.

Rudy understood nothing, and that night was the prelude of things to come. Two
and a half years later, the Kaufmann Shoe Shop was reduced to broken glass,
and all the shoes were flung aboard a truck in their boxes.