In Bernhard Schlink's thought-provoking novel 'The Reader', young Michael Berg embarks on a forbidden affair with an older woman, Hanna Schmitz, in post-war Germany. Their passionate relationship takes a dark turn when Hanna's mysterious past as a Nazi concentration camp guard comes to light during a war crimes trial. As Michael navigates the complexities of guilt, love, and the haunting shadows of history, he grapples with the implications of understanding and forgiveness. The story intricately weaves themes of memory and moral ambiguity, leaving readers questioning the nature of justice. Will Michael be able to reconcile his feelings for Hanna with the atrocities she represents?
By Bernhard Schlink
Published: 1999
"The law cannot punish every wrong; sometimes it is only the memory that remains."
INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER • Hailed for its coiled eroticism and the moral claims it makes upon the reader, this mesmerizing novel is a story of love and secrets, horror and compassion, unfolding against the haunted landscape of postwar Germany. "A formally beautiful, disturbing and finally morally devastating novel." —Los Angeles Times When he falls ill on his way home from school, fifteen-year-old Michael Berg is rescued by Hanna, a woman twice his age. In time she becomes his lover—then she inexplicably disappears. When Michael next sees her, he is a young law student, and she is on trial for a hideous crime. As he watches her refuse to defend her innocence, Michael gradually realizes that Hanna may be guarding a secret she considers more shameful than murder.
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“The law cannot punish every wrong; sometimes it is only the memory that remains.”
The Reader
By Bernhard Schlink
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Bernhard Schlink is a renowned German author and law professor, best known for his novel 'The Reader' (Der Vorleser), which explores themes of guilt, memory, and the moral complexities of post-war Germany. Born on July 6, 1944, in Mannheim, Germany, Schlink's works often delve into the human condition and the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals in turbulent historical contexts. His writing style is characterized by its clarity, psychological depth, and philosophical underpinnings. Other notable works include 'Holiday Romance' and 'The Weekend.' Schlink's contributions to literature have not only garnered international acclaim but have also inspired film adaptations and critical discussions.
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