Frau Hermann, in many ways, is one of the wisest people in The Book Thief. Although she did spend more time than Liesel thought necessary in mourning her son, Frau Hermann does understand Liesel's obsession with books in a way that almost nobody else does. Hans might grasp some of her love of reading, but Hans does not come across as very educated and intellectual, and most likely did not have the same love of reading as a child. Ilsa Hermann, however, has a whole library of books, so she must love to read, and is therefore able to comprehend what makes Liesel want to steal books.
However, I did not expect her to welcome the person stealing her books with cookies and a gift (the dictionary). Maybe she sees a little bit of her son in Liesel, and that is why she is so nice to her. Does anyone else have any other theories on Frau Hermann's strange behavior?
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
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I think that since Isla is so lonely due to the fact that her son died and that her husband is away often, Ilsa enjoys Liesel's company and she enjoys spending time with her. I think it is also possible that Ilsa feels guilty for firing Rosa, so she wants to make up for it by being friendly.
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