“The Reader” by Bernhard Schlink

The book
“The reader” is Michael, who is initially 15 years old. He falls in love with the much older Hannah and their unusual love story spans one summer.
During this time, their shared ritual develops, which consists of bathing, reading to each other and making love. Hannah often oppresses Michael but he submits to it.
Until one day Hannah disappears without a trace.
It wasn't until years later, during Michael's studies, that they met again. Michael is a prospective lawyer and attends a concentration camp trial. In this, Hannah is accused as one of several guards.
Michael follows the entire process and stays in touch with Hannah afterwards.

My opinion
I had no idea about the book when I started reading it. So I was always surprised. Initially it was just about the love story. It quickly becomes clear from the beginning that Hannah has a secret, but I didn't expect it to take such a turn.
The concentration camp trial in which Hannah is accused is thought-provoking and raises many questions. It also makes you happy that you weren't born at that time and you only have to ask yourself the questions in "what if" mode.
It's an exciting book that once you've started it you won't be able to put it down or even want to stop reading it.
New sides of Hannah are constantly being discovered and little secrets are revealed. What remains a mystery, however, is why Hannah let herself be read to.

It also becomes clear what influence Hannah had on Michael's life. Not just at the time of their love story, but also many years later. Michael can't free himself from Hannah. She always remains a foundation in his life, even if she didn't want to be.
A great book, very emotional and should be part of everyone's general education. The excuse “I just don’t have time to read” becomes null and void with the audio book.
With only 5 hours length, if in doubt, you can “listen to it” in one night.

Curious? Click here for the free audio book !

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