If you know me you know I'm a book lover. A few months ago I attended a book symposium where the keynote speaker was Leif Enger, author or Peace Like a River. I loved what he had to say about stories. My favorite thing he said was "Some books will build you up and some will tear you down, but they are all your friends."
I recently read a book that did both. The Book Thief, by Markus Zusak, was not an easy book for me to read. The story takes place in Germany during World War 2, and it offered a perspective that broke my heart and touched it all at once. It was quite bumpy for me in the beginning, but I was compelled to finish. This story gave me the opportunity to gain an understanding I hadn't had before. That's what I love about books. They take me places and teach me more that I could ever learn by myself in one lifetime. Books take me on adventures, they jiggle my imagination, they teach me tender lessons.
This weekend I saw "The Boy Striped Pajamas"- also based on a book written at the time of the Holocaust. It was another unique perspective and touched my heart immensely. I wasn't there at that time, I don't even know very many people that were, but I feel like through words I got enough of a glimpse to gain perspective.
Words are a wonderful thing.
ps. Markus Zusak is coming to speak later this month and I can't wait to hear what he has to say!
6 comments:
I love both of those books and that movie!
where is marcus going to speak?
I loved your thoughts! I agree. I read the Book Thief, felt the same way!
He's going to be at the Provo library the evening of March 26th! tickets are available at the library tomorrow morning!
Wish I could have heard Leif. I love that book. You recommended it to me, if I recall. And I wish I could go to the Provo library with you. Sigh.
I would have loved to meet Enger. I love his writing style. His prose is beautiful...poetic, really. Thanks for your thoughts. I love reading and what I gain from it. Wish I could be there when Markus Zusak speaks!
Post a Comment