Reluctance or stubbornness to stop impulsive actions can have consequences. In Markus Zusak's The Book Thief, Liesel Meminger's inability to stop her dangerous habits puts her life and the lives of others in dangerous situations. Three main examples of Liesel's dangerous activities are when she steals books, when she demonstrates kindness at inopportune times, and when she disrespects others for selfish reasons. In all of these examples, there is always a moment where Liesel puts herself or others in danger and narrowly escapes punishment. Every time Liesel steals books from people, she constantly puts the lives of others at risk. An example of this is when Liesel is worried about Max's death and wants to steal a book and read it to him in hopes that he will get better. Stealing books is his stubborn addiction. Furthermore, she is accompanied by Rudy, putting her life in danger as well. The mayor could have easily reported Liesel's theft of his books to the police and she would have been severely punished. This danger, which Liesel takes just to get what she wants, is demonstrated when her best friend Rudy Steiner says: “You didn't go to eat, did you? You got what you wanted…” (Page 289). The quote demonstrates how Liesel would do anything to get a book, even if it meant lying to her friend and putting them both in danger. Another example of Liesel's dangerous habit of stealing books is during the bonfire where the books were burned. This part is very early in the novel and is where Liesel steals her second book, The Shrug. Stealing from the bonfire was extremely dangerous as these books had to be destroyed. Anyone caught trying to remove one of these books would be severely punished or whipped. The severity of... middle of paper... Liesel's family would also be affected. It is at times like these that Liesel should have learned to control her actions towards those more powerful than her, as she and those around her could have been punished. her and others in dangerous situations. Her habit of stealing books, her misinterpreted kindness towards Max, and her attitude towards elders and officials are all examples of Liesel's defiance to do what she wants, regardless of the consequences or dangers. If Liesel had been less stubborn and listened to her elders more, she would have been in much less danger and the people around her would have been safe too. Therefore, thinking before acting impulsively is extremely important: it ensures that what you do does not endanger yourself or others.