The Reader: Summary

The Reader by Bernhard Schlink is a novel about memory, guilt, and the consequences of Germany's past. It follows the story of Michael Berg, a 15-year-old boy who falls in love with a mysterious older woman, Hanna Schmitz. Years later, when Michael is an adult, he discovers that Hanna had been involved in terrible war crimes during World War II and has to grapple with his complicated feelings for her. Ultimately, the novel raises questions about our responsibility for past wrongs and how we can move forward into a better future.

1. How does the author use symbolism throughout the novel?
2. What do you think is the main theme of The Reader?
3. How does the structure of the novel contribute to its themes?
4. What is your opinion on how the characters are portrayed in The Reader?
5. In what ways does The Reader challenge readers’ perspectives?
6. How has Michael Berg’s relationship with Hanna Schmitz evolved throughout the novel?
7. How did reading and writing play a role in Michael Berg's life?
8. What do you think are the social implications of The Reader?
9. Do you think that Hanna Schmitz was a sympathetic character?
10. What message do you think the author conveys through The Reader?

• The Reader is a powerful story that effectively captures the complex emotions of guilt, shame and regret.
• The Reader is an incredibly moving exploration into the consequences of moral ambiguity.
• The narrative structure of The Reader is both unique and captivating.
• The Reader offers an intriguing examination of the effects of trauma on memory and identity.
• The Reader paints a vivid portrait of post-WWII Germany and its culture of silence.
• Through its nuanced exploration of difficult topics, The Reader invites readers to confront their own moral beliefs.
• The Reader is a thought-provoking exploration into the power and limitations of justice and mercy.
• With its multi-layered characters and intense themes, The Reader is an unforgettable story about love, loss and redemption.
• The symbolism in The Reader is masterfully crafted to evoke an emotional response from readers.
• The Reader conveys powerful messages about justice, responsibility and the legacy of the past with surprising clarity and depth.

1. "The only right is what's after your heart."
2. "No matter how much time has passed, certain things between people remain unchanged."
3. "We can never go back. We can only move forward."
4. "If I'm to understand anything in life, I must do it myself."
5. "It's always the same: We want to love and be loved in return."

TV: -The Reader (2008): A BBC four-part mini-series adaptation of the novel, starring Kate Winslet and David Kross. Film: -The Reader (2008): A film adaptation of the novel, directed by Stephen Daldry and starring Kate Winslet and Ralph Fiennes. Radio: -The Reader (2005): An audio production of the novel broadcast by BBC Radio 4 in two parts. Podcast: -The Reader (2018): This podcast is a dramatized audio version of the novel. It was produced by Playground Productions Ltd. for Audible UK. Theatrical: -The Reader (2015): This theatrical adaptation of the novel was performed at The Royal Court Theatre in London and written by Nick Payne.

• Self's Deception
• Flights of Love
• The Gordian Knot
• Homecoming Summer Lies
• Guilt About the Past
• Montauk
• Liebesfluchten
• Der Hahn ist Tot
• Olga
• A Place in the Country