Nepoata

In Nepoata, Kaspar learns of a hidden part of Birgit’s life. It draws him into Germany’s past, when the country was split. She fled with him to West Berlin for love and freedom. He learns the cost of her choice only after she dies.

Kaspar goes to what was East Germany to learn her secret. He meets people she loved and learns how they faced persecution. His search leads to a rural group of neo-Nazis. There, a girl comes to see him as a grandfather. He, in turn, thinks of her as a granddaughter. Their lives and beliefs differ, but he sets out to save her.

Bernhard Schlink’s novel links three generations of women. Each faces a fresh start. It explores love, grief and the wish to make amends. It links life in a split Germany to life there since reunification. Its thoughtful yet hopeful tone suits readers who like family stories shaped by history. It also returns to a theme from Schlink’s Cititorul.

Mariana Bărbulescu translated this edition from German. She also wrote the notes.