Fiction Set in German-Speaking Countries

Fiction Set in German-Speaking Countries

We often hear of famous tales set in France or Italy, where magical, engaging stories unfold in an age-old setting under storybook blue skies. But what about tales set in German-speaking countries, from Germany, Switzerland and Austria? There are plenty of work from historical fiction set in WWII Germany to fantasy novels inspired by the Bavarian Black Forest. So let's take a look at some of the best fiction set in German-speaking countries.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Set in Nazi Germany, The Book Thief follows the story of a young girl, which some have called 'the ultimate bookworm saviour.' Facing daily dangers and the horrors of war, she finds solace and power in her love of books and her determination to share them with others. One of modern literature's most beloved tales, The Book Thief has been adored by readers worldwide.
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Kindred by Octavia E. Butler

This captivating science-fiction novel follows a young African-American woman who finds herself repeatedly travelling back in time, to Nazi Germany. Struggling to balance her present life with her new past, the protagonist is forced to make some tough and lasting decisions that will determine her future. This thought-provoking story is hailed by many as one of the greatest ever written.

All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque

A classic tale about a group of German soldiers in WW1, All Quiet on the Western Front has been translated into dozens of languages and is one of the most read books of the 20th century. It tells tales of horror and grief while exploring deep questions of morality and humanity.

Danube by Claudio Magris

Also known as The Danube: A Journey Upriver in Search of a Lost World, Danube is a journey of philosophy and memoir. Magris combines storytelling with reality to create a tension between 'then and now’, as he reconstructs his past and travels up the Danube to forgotten towns and riverside communities long gone. His exploration is a truthful yet beautiful tale of human elegy.

Where'd You Go Bernadette by Maria Semple

In this quirky novel, Bernadette Fox, an unrecognised genius, goes missing from her life at Seattle. Her daughter's pursuit of her to an unknown place leads to an unexpected surprise: a tranquil village near Berchtesgaden, an area that's forever linked to Adolf Hitler’s memory. This comic yet thoughtful novel is a journey of a daughter discovering her mother's inner spirit.

The Exiles Return by Elisabeth De Waal

Set during the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, The Exiles Return is a heartbreaking, introspective tale. It follows a woman and her family's return to their homeland after being exiled for years. It's a story of inner turmoil in a confused, post-WWI world, told with insight and sensitivity.

The Sorrows of Young Werther by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Written by German poet, playwright, novelist and statesman Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, The Sorrows of Young Werther is set in the countryside before the French Revolution. A beloved classic in German literature, it continues to inspire literature today and has been credited for founding the genre of the German sentimental novel.

Bis(s) zum Morgengrauen by Stephenie Meyer

The enormously popular Twilight series has gained fans all over the world. Set mainly in Germany and Italy, the fourth book, Bis(s) zum Morgengrauen, is the first and only of the series to be set partially in Germany. Here, Bella and Edward explore their love story and embark on a dangerous and unexpected journey that will change their lives forever.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

The seventh and final instalment in the Harry Potter series sees the trio’s journey take them to the infamous village of Godric’s Hollow, Germany, a location oozing with history and Magik. Here, they increase their knowledge of Deathly Hallows and take risks as they try to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Snow White by The Brothers Grimm

No article about books set in German-speaking countries would be complete without mention The Brothers Grimm and their timeless classic Snow White. This tale of the beautiful yet troubled princess and her seven helpful and lovelorn dwarf companions has been enchanting readers for centuries with its sagacious lessons and memorable characters.

Whether you're looking for a historical novel, an adventure story or a modern classic, there are dozens of brilliant options for books set in German-speaking countries. Beautiful stories spanning huge time frames, ranging from the days of the Grimm Brothers to the modern world of Magik, provide readers with the chance to travel without ever leaving their home.

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