9 Best ‘The Book Thief Goodreads’ Books Reviewed 2025

Explore the best reads like 'The Book Thief Goodreads' and discover stories that capture history with heart and humor.

All the Light We Cannot See coverThe Nightingale coverThe Boy in the Striped Pajamas cover

Embarking on a literary journey like ‘The Book Thief Goodreads’ can be life-changing. We focus on stories rich in emotion, historical depth, and captivating narratives. Each book we chose offers a unique perspective, ensuring readers find a tale that resonates with them. If ‘The Book Thief’ moved you, this list is crafted to captivate and inspire just the same. Let’s explore what these stories have to offer!

On this list:

9 All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

All the Light We Cannot See cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2014
  • Pages: 544

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This book, like ‘the book thief goodreads,’ captures wartime Europe through the eyes of children. It tells a powerful story of human connection.

8 The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2015
  • Pages: 608

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Another gripping tale set in World War II, focusing on the lives of two sisters in Nazi-occupied France. It’s emotional and engaging.

7 The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction, Young Adult
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2006
  • Pages: 224

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This book tells a haunting tale of friendship during the Holocaust, seen through the innocent eyes of a young boy.

6 Life After Life by Kate Atkinson

Life After Life cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction, Science Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2013
  • Pages: 529

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An imaginative novel exploring the many lives of one woman through the twentieth century’s turbulent times. It’s both thought-provoking and engaging.

5 The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel

The Book of Lost Names cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2020
  • Pages: 400

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Set during World War II, this is a gripping tale of bravery and the power of books to bring hope and light.

4 The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2008
  • Pages: 274

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A charming novel about life on the island of Guernsey during World War II. It’s witty, heartfelt, and a joy to read.

3 The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

The Light Between Oceans cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2012
  • Pages: 343

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This story takes us to a different time and place but shares the emotional depth and exploration of morality seen in ‘the book thief goodreads.’

2 Sarah’s Key by Tatiana de Rosnay

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2006
  • Pages: 294

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A gripping dual narrative that explores history’s pain and a young girl’s fate during the Vel’ d’Hiv Roundup in 1942 Paris.

1 The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

The Book Thief cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction, Young Adult
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2005
  • Pages: 552

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Let’s face it, ‘The Book Thief’ earns the top spot because it delivers a tale that combines the innocence of youth with the harshness of war and the power of words. Set in Nazi Germany through the eyes of a young girl, Liesel, and narrated by Death, the book is both heartbreaking and mesmerizing. The portrayal of Liesel’s love for books and her courage amidst the chaos of war resonates with readers. Zusak’s unique narrative style and the emotional depth of his characters make this book an unforgettable experience. It’s no wonder this book is frequently recommended on ‘the book thief goodreads’.

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!