It’s Germany in the 1930s and the Third Reich is reaching its peak. Liesel has just arrived at the home of her adoptive parents, Rosa and Hans. As Liesel navigates her way through a new town and the trials and tribulations of late childhood, her strength and bond with her new parents is tested as the new regime enacts its social changes and the threat of war looms, particularly with the arrival of a houseguest who will live in the basement and must be kept a secret at all costs.

This is an adaptation of Markus Zusak’s remarkable novel. It is not a Holocaust movie, though comparisons to Roberto Benigni’s Life is Beautiful are probably inevitable, given the age of the protagonist. Although the story follows Liesel’s journey during the war, it is also the story of its narrator, Death, and the inescapability of his presence in all our lives.

As one who adored the original novel, I was apprehensive about its translation to the big screen. As is often the case, the film can’t quite live up to its source but don’t let that deter you. It’s still a great story. Geoffrey Rush gives, as usual, a stunning performance as a man torn between doing right by his family and doing what is right, and newcomer Sophie Nélisse is impressive as the titular thief. Special mention must also go to the underappreciated Emily Watson who is great as the brusque but loving Rosa.

Definitely bring tissues to this film.