The Whistler and the Shoes

The chapter "The Whistler and the Shoes" depicts Rudy and Liesel's childish revenge against their troubles and problems. As Rudy has been beaten down by Viktor Chemmel and Franz Duestcher, he feels that he needs a victory. As a result, he turns to Liesel, who, also seeking revenge, turns to the mayor's house to steal back "The Whistler".

I feel that the act of revenge is more for Liesel than Rudy in this chapter. Zusak focuses on Liesel's revenge and feelings ("She wouldn't tolerate having it given to her by a lonely, pathetic woman. Stealing it, on the other hand, seemed a little more acceptable/ pg. 287.3), and shows Liesel's true perspective on stealing. Zusak also gives Liesel a strong reason to steal back "The Whistler", as Liesel was angry at Illsa Hermann for firing Rosa and maybe even felt guilty about attacking Illsa earlier. This chapter, therefore, is clearly more for Liesel than it is for Rudy.

This chapter also shows the wide range of emotions with Liesel and Rudy. At first, both are angry and motivated for revenge. However, after stealing, Rudy, even though he had not gained much from stealing from the mayor, loses his revengeful attitude very quickly. Liesel also looses her revengeful attitude, and by the end of the chapter, both characters are back to being good natured. Rudy and Liesel's quick behavior change shows that revenge and hatred do not last for long, and shows that their overall behavior composes of happiness and friendship.

At the end of the chapter, Rudy says, "Good night, book thief" (pg 292.2). This is the first time that someone else other than Death addresses Liesel as "The Book Thief"and is significant because it illustrates a major theme of the book (book stealing) and signifies the official recognition of Liesel's book stealing career (But in late October 1941, it became official. That night, Liesel Meminger truly became the book thief/ pg. 292.3). It is still unclear to me, however, why Zusak officially makes Liesel a book thief now, as oppose to when she steals "The Grave Digger's Handbook" or "The Shoulder Shrug" at the book burning.