Here's one of those rare books that is so enthralling you can't put it down, and you feel a better person for having read the book. For me, To Kill a Mockingbird is one of those books. Well, I've found another... The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.

It takes place in WWII Germany, and while it involves weighty subject matter, it's also uplifting and heartwarming. I can't recommend it enough... for adults and for high school students. SJPL has copies in many formats, including CD and as an electronic download.

If you like The Book Thief, you might also want to read Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay.