Page 495 - The Book Thief

better at reading and ruining books than making assumptions.

THREE DAYS LATER
The woman has knocked at number

thirty-three and waits for a reply.

It was strange for Liesel to see her without the bathrobe. The summer dress was
yellow with red trim. There was a pocket with a small flower on it. No
swastikas. Black shoes. Never before had she noticed Ilsa Hermanns shins. She
had porcelain legs.

Frau Hermann, Im sorryfor what I did the last time in the library.

The woman quieted her. She reached into her bag and pulled out a small black
book. Inside was not a story, but lined paper. I thought if youre not going to read
any more of my books, you might like to write one instead. Your letter, it was . .
. She handed the book to Liesel with both hands. You can certainly write. You
write well. The book was heavy, the cover matted like The Shoulder Shrug. And
please, Ilsa Hermann advised her, dont punish yourself, like you said you would.
Dont be like me, Liesel.

The girl opened the book and touched the paper. Danke schn, Frau Hermann. I
can make you some coffee, if you like. Would you come in? Im home alone. My
mamas next door, with Frau Holtzapfel.

Shall we use the door or the window?

Liesel suspected it was the broadest smile Ilsa Hermann had allowed herself in
years. I think well use the door. Its easier.

They sat in the kitchen.

Coffee mugs and bread with jam. They struggled to speak and Liesel could hear
Ilsa Hermann swallow, but somehow, it was not uncomfortable. It was even nice

to see the woman gently blow across the coffee to cool it.