The Reader

The Reader by Bernhard Schlink is a haunting, thought-provoking novel about love, guilt, and the weight of history. Set in post–World War II Germany, the story follows Michael Berg, a teenage boy who begins an affair with Hanna Schmitz, a mysterious older woman. Years later, as a law student observing war-crimes trials, Michael is stunned to find Hanna again—this time as the defendant accused of unspeakable crimes during the Holocaust.

As Michael confronts his memories and his nation’s past, The Reader becomes a powerful exploration of moral complexity, shame, and the limits of understanding. Schlink’s elegant prose and emotional restraint make this an unforgettable modern classic about the intersection of personal and collective responsibility.

Translated from German by Carol Brown Janeway

Condition: Very Good