We have changed our privacy policy. In addition, we use cookies on our website for various purposes. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. You can learn about our practices by reading our privacy policy.

The Book Thief Chapter 34 Summary

The Sleeper

  • Over the next three days, Max stays asleep.
  • Liesel watches him often. By day three of the sleep, she can think of nothing else.
  • She's torn between wanting to be there when he wakes up and not wanting to be there.
  • The only thing that tears her away is Rosa.
  • Max says names in his sleep, "Isaac. Aunt Ruth. Sarah. Mama. Walter. Hitler" (34.6).
  • Sometimes he thrashes, and at one point he says the word "Nein" or "No" (34.8) nine times.
  • Now, he's waking.
  • He sees Liesel's face, upside down, because she's standing over him.
  • He's confused and unsure of where he is.
  • Liesel moves back on instinct.
  • But Max takes hold of her arm with his warm hand, and says, "Please" (34.17).
  • Liesel calls for Hans.
  • Max repeats his plea.
  • Hans enters to find them this way. He says, "I see you two have met" (34.22).
  • The heat begins to leave Max's hands.