Reading blurbs - Read in 2024

1. The Seventh Cross by Anna Seghers (trans. Margot Bettauer Dembo).

This 1942 suspense novel relates the escape of a political prisoner from one of the earliest concentration camps. On his journey, he reunites with friends and comrades, each which must choose whether to help or betray him. I think the part of this book that I found the most interesting was its depiction of German communists and fellow travelers making these decisions as the shit is hitting the fan and they are finding their principals tested in a very real way. I read this back in January and I wish it didn't feel so relevant now. I highly recommend Seghers in general for her taut, incisive, yet compassionate writing.

 

2. The Brave Little Toaster by Thomas M. Disch.

I was totally unprepared for how witty and charming I would find this children's classic.

 

3. East of Eden by John Steinbeck.

A deceptively simple plot and starkly beautiful language combine with sophisticated characterization. I was especially surprised by the novel's nuanced depiction of race and double consciousness. Feels both epic and true and capital B 'Bibical.' It feels almost trite to recommend his work at this point, but I guess I get now why folks still love Steinbeck.

4. Der hoyf on fenster by Mimi Pinzon

One of the best child POVs I've ever come across. Not available in English (yet! I hope someone will take up the challenge of translation), so sorry if you don't read Yiddish (you could learn though, that would be cool, just planting a seed). 

5. The End of Days by Jenny Erpenbeck (trans. Susan Bernofsky)

Are you also haunted by life's finitude, uncertainty, and the human capacity for violence? This book may or may not help you.