I wasn't reading a story, I was reading someone's life in another time. That's how real it was for me.
I read The Book Thief in the very same way humans live their life: one day at a time. I'm glad I didn't rush it, for it was like holding Life itself in your hands: there were good times, hellish periods, and the best & worst part is that, it eventually ends. You will enjoy the journey, but maybe not the final destination. Nor unspoken goodbyes. Finally found a book, sometimes an object of escapism, packed with a story heavy with reality.