The Reader by Bernhard Schlink

Translated from the German by Carol Brown Janeway

This is a haunting, compelling read from post-war Germany, fusing past and present as the lives of a teenage boy and an older woman intertwine. It is one of the most moving books I have read for a long time: the sorrow and pity of war and personal sadness linger on long after. But there is beauty to be found, and savoured fleetingly, in its sad pages, despite the heartache that accompanies it. No wonder a recent film adaptation was nominated for five Academy Awards.