The Book Thief is Markus Zusak’s novel exploring the Holocaust and its impact on both Jewish and non-Jewish Germans. Although the novel is focused on Liesel and her life hiding a Jewish German, Max, Zusak also zeros in on her journey to understanding the power literature and words can have.

Demonstrated by Hitler’s ability to manipulate and control Nazi Germany through fear and his words, the novel follows her as she learn about the prejudiced world around her. Her discovery of the power of words is greatly emphasized with her yelling match with Ilsa, the mayor’s wife and her maternal figure.

Having a goal in life provides something to pursue, a reason to keep improving and growing. Oedipus Rex by Sophocles is a Greek tragedy following Oedipus Rex and his pursuit of his future despite hardships. The Delphi Oracle tells Oedipus that he will kill his father and sleep with his mother, which prompts him to flee his home in Corinth in an attempt to escape his fate — an action that sets the scene for the beginning of the play. Sophocles’ message in Oedipus Rex tells us that despite past mistakes, looking towards the future for new opportunities, reflecting on the past to prevent repeating mistakes, and persevering through momentary setbacks allow individuals to become better people.