Remember that Josef needs to stand next to an object in order to interact with it.
Scan object
Make sure to scan the area for any object that you think you can pick up. It only takes a second to tap an object and see if Josef will snatch it for later.
Walkthrough
You can get a full walkthrough for the puzzle you are on by tapping on the book. You will need to play a little mini-game to get the solution, but it is mercifully easy.