The Book Thief Chapter 68

The Anarchist's Suit Collection

• (Since the word "anarchist" doesn't actually come up the story, click here for a definition of anarchy. It might help makes sense of the chapter title.)
• Since Alex and Hans are both still away, the Steiner's invite Rosa, Trudy (Rosa's daughter), and Liesel to their house on Christmas Eve.
• When they get there, they find Rudy "in the process of explaining his clothing" (68.1).
• Throughout December, 1942, Liesel's been reading The Word Shaker.
• She's also decided on Rudy's Christmas present.
• She goes to his house to give it to him.
• Since she doesn't have anything with her, and no money, Rudy sees that she has the need to thieve. Luckily, he has it, too.
• She convinces Rudy to get the keys to his dad's tailor shop.
• It seems like the mannequins are watching what's happening.
• Rudy doesn't think his dad will mind this little break-in, things being as they are.
• They goof around in the darkness and Liesel trips over a mannequin.
• Rudy hopes she isn't giving him a mannequin for Christmas.
• Nope. She isn't. She picks out a suit for him.
• He tries it on and asks how it looks.
• She says it would be better if he had better shoes and a better face.
• He looks mad and comes after her, but trips on a mannequin and falls laughing to the floor.
• Then he shuts his eyes.
• Liesel is worried and leans over him.
• Death wants her to kiss Rudy!
• She doesn't.
• Rudy says he misses his dad.
• Liesel helps him up and wishes him a Merry Christmas.