Hans Fallada: ALONE IN BERLIN

The book selection was positively received. People were variously struck by the style (flat? deliberate "degree zero" presentation? translation?), the characters (didactically good/bad? nuanced? all too human?), and the author's biography. Some were swept away, either immediately or after a dutiful plod through the opening. Anke and Maren felt they were reliving certain hectoring childhood school sessions. Many appreciated the sense of population and complexity of the book, with Robin especially citing the "feel" of the apartment house settings. Overall reaction: an excellent choice for discussion -- thank you, Emma-Jane.

Phoebe