Page 125 - The Book Thief

She hated questions like that. They forced her to admit an ugly truth, to reveal

her own filthy, thieving nature. Because I stole again.

Papa bent himself to a crouching position, then rose and placed his hand on her
head. He stroked her hair with his rough, long fingers and said, Of course not,
Liesel. You are safe.

So what are you going to do?

That was the question.

What marvelous act was Hans Hubermann about to produce from the thin
Munich Street air?

Before I show you, I think we should first take a look at what he was seeing
prior to his decision.

PAPAS FAST-PACED VISIONS First, he sees the girls books: The Grave
Diggers Handbook, Faust the Dog, The Lighthouse, and now The Shoulder
Shrug. Next is a kitchen and a volatile Hans Junior, regarding those books

on the table, where the girl often reads. He speaks: And what trash is this
girl reading? His son repeats the question three times, after which he makes
his suggestion for more appropriate reading material.

Listen, Liesel. Papa placed his arm around her and walked her on. This is our
secret, this book. Well read it at night or in the basement, just like the othersbut
you have to promise me something.

Anything, Papa.

The night was smooth and still. Everything listened. If I ever ask you to keep a
secret for me, you will do it.

I promise.

Good. Now come on. If were any later, Mama will kill us, and we dont want