Sophia C. reviewed on 8/29/2010 + 289 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

Sometimes it is risking disappointment to re-engage an enjoyable work in another medium. No so for The Reader. Reading the book was equally pleasurable but with a different feel. Michael Berg narrates a retrospective bildungsroman which can stand for the entire German second generation. Michael was helped by a much older Hanna Schmitz when he fell ill at age 15; his visit to thank her led to a secret affair which ends when she suddenly leaves. Years later as a law student he encounters her again when she is on trial for her role in the war. Both characters are strongly portrayed, flawed people; the story is decidedly Michael's in the book version. Without the visual details, the simple, elegant prose more easily invites serious reflection on moral questions of love, betrayal, guilt, responsibility, and shame. It also made me think about who fits the title role, and the active vs. passive nature of reading. I'd recommend this novel to someone looking for a poignant, mind-engaging read.

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