Best Writing Advice I’ve Ever Received from The Book Thief’s Markus Zusak

March 23, 2026

Loading player...

Episode Description

Do you remember The Book Thief? It came out twenty years ago and was a massive bestseller. It was just re-released as a 20th anniversary edition and oh my gosh, it’s gorgeous. I re-read the book to prepare for my interview with Markus and highly encourage you to do so, too — or read it for the first time if you missed it. Spectacular. 


It’s a story about a young, book-loving, non-Jewish girl in Nazi Germany, her family’s relationship with the man they hid, her own family’s struggle, and a town reeling from the war. I’m not doing it justice. It’s so good, a coming-of-age in wartime. Also? Incredibly creative. Hear from Markus Zusak about how he wrote the book only he could write. 

** Check out the Z.I.P. membership program—Zibby’s Important People! As a Z.I.P., you’ll get exclusive essays, special author access, discounts at Zibby’s Bookshop, and more. Head to zibbyowens.com to subscribe or upgrade and become a Z.I.P. today!

** Follow @totallybookedwithzibby on Instagram for more about today's episode.


(Music by Morning Moon Music. Sound editing by TexturesSound. To inquire about advertising, please contact allie.gallo@acast.com.)


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recent Episodes

Shai Davidai on the October 7 Anniversary
NYT Bestselling Author Michael Lewis on Blockers
Erin Schlozman on the Myth of the Perfect Mom
Hank Phillippi Ryan on Storytelling