The Reader

Books | Fiction / Literary

3.6

(726)

Bernhard Schlink

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 TimesWhen 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.

Historical Fiction

Buy now:

More Details:

Author

Bernhard Schlink

Pages

224

Publisher

Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

Published Date

2001-05-01

ISBN

0375726977 9780375726972

Ratings

Google: 4

Community ReviewsSee all

"Inspired by “The Giver”, one of my favourite movies; by its truths in society"

Annika Nicolas

"I actually really loved this book. I’ve never watched the movie and I don’t think I ever will. I will admit I sobbed at the end. I definitely recommend but it’s not for the people who don’t like taboo subjects. 5/5"

Saige

"Beautifully written. The story and characters captivated my heart and attention after the first few chapters. Truths. Love. History. Maybe even a little hard to swallow reality of life."

Kass W

"Meh"

Alex Beres

"It’s a well written quick read."

J j

Jennifer johnston

"Ahh it's hard to choose, I definitely love when she's learning to read and write and the ending with the symbolism of post war crimes and generational trauma. Such an amazing book! "

Kennadee Katherine

"Frank writing, to the degree that it became removed and dull. Lost the human story in philosophical flotsam about generational guilt. When it circled back around, it was profoundly effective."

tinyhouse bigreads

"The Reader was written using a unique voice and wording. That might be because the author is, or seems to be, German. The story itself was good, the whole thing was from his point of view. It was a good book but i can't say it was one of my favorites."