The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

First of all, the narrator is Death -- this uniqueness alone had me hooked.  The story takes place in Nazi Germany during WWII and follows the story of a young girl who is left in the care of foster parents following the death of her younger brother.  It's one of the most beautifully written, emotional books I've ever read.  The dark humor with which the story, combined with the love that grows throughout the story, makes for a richness that I've never encountered in a book before.  I don't want to say much more than this, as one of the best parts of the book is really not knowing what to expect.  But I recommend it heartily to all Frisky readers. -- Lianne