The Book Thief

Mrs. Hermann wouldn't be considered a gracious woman. She's not overly nice, she isolates herself because of the grief she feels after the death of her son. She's a cold woman, but not without reason..... she simply doesn't know how to live anymore. Mrs. Hermann can be considered beautiful because she's a survivor. She embraces Liesel's presence and urges her to read to her. In this, we find that maybe her self-imposed isolation won't last forever. She's vulnerable, hurt, and needs to heal.