A mesmerising tale of discovery, of the search for identity and of the need for understanding and forgiveness.

From the author of The Reader, a mesmerising tale of discovery, identity and forgiveness

When thirteen-year-old Peter discovers an old manuscript in his family home it instantly captivates him. The manuscript tells the compelling story of a German soldier's homecoming after escaping from a POW camp, but the document is incomplete.

Years later, the adult Peter rediscovers the text and goes in search of the missing pages - but far from unearthing an ending, he finds himself at the beginning of a quest that leads him across Europe to New York City, to the mystery of his father's disappearance, a love story, and the question of his own identity...

'A fine novel' Guardian
'A brave attempt at confronting Germany's stained past and uncertain identity' Daily Telegraph
'An accomplished and intelligent writer' Evening Standard
'A novel of great density and power' Literary Review
'An invigorating read' Metro

A novel beloved by thousands of readers
'Too good to finish' *****
'Highly recommended' *****
'A must read' *****
'Brilliant' *****
'Complex and profound' *****

"An even deeper mystery unravels in this compelling tale that addresses Germany's troubled history, the fall of the Berlin Wall and the challenges facing a country that's still very much divided" - SHE

"Schlink's book of longing remains both stylish and intelligent" - OBSERVER

"a book of disarming honesty and insight" - GOOD BOOK GUIDE

"Schlink wrestles with how to deal with the sins of fathers in this absorbing novel." - WATERSTONES BOOKS QUARTERLY