Page 336 - The Book Thief

of them had the audacity to consider what theyd

do if the basement was appointed as a shelter.
They had to survive the inspection first.

They listened to Nazi footsteps in the basement. There was the sound of
measuring tape. Liesel could not ward off the thought of Max sitting beneath the
steps, huddled around his sketchbook, hugging it to his chest.

Papa stood. Another idea.

He walked to the hall and called out, Everything good down there?

The answer ascended the steps, on top of Max Vandenburg. Another minute,
perhaps!

Would you like some coffee, some tea?

No thank you!

When Papa returned, he ordered Liesel to fetch a book and for Rosa to start
cooking. He decided the last thing they should do was sit around looking
worried. Well, come on, he said loudly, move it, Liesel. I dont care if your knee
hurts. You have to finish that book, like you said.

Liesel tried not to break. Yes, Papa.

What are you waiting for? It took great effort to wink at her, she could tell.

In the corridor, she nearly collided with the party man.

In trouble with your papa, huh? Never mind. Im the same with my own children.

They walked their separate ways, and when Liesel made it to her room, she
closed the door and fell to her knees, despite the added pain. She listened first to
the judgment that the basement was too shallow, then the goodbyes, one of
which was sent down the corridor. Goodbye, maniacal soccer player!