Book, 1995 by Bernhard SchlinkHailed for its coiled eroticism and the moral claims it makes upon the reader, this mesmerizing novel is a story of love and secrets, horror and compassion, unfolding against the haunted landscape of postwar Germany.
When he falls ill on his way home from school, fifteen-year-old Michael Berg is rescued by Hanna, a woman twice his age. In time she becomes his lover—then she inexplicably disappears. When Michael next sees her, he is a young law student, and she is on trial for a hideous crime. As he watches her refuse to defend her innocence, Michael gradually realizes that Hanna may be guarding a secret she considers more shameful than murder.
Movie, 2008 directed by Stephen DaldryFeatures: Ralph Fiennes, Kate Winslet, David Kross
Tagline: How far would you go to protect a secret?
Awards: Kate Winslet won an Oscar and Golden Globe (and various other awards) for her performance. She won for actress in a leading role (Oscar) and actress in a supporting role (GG). The difference has to do with her performance in the award-winning film Revolutionary Road during the same year.
Watch the trailer:
Have you read or seen The Reader? It was an Oprah selection in 1999...did you read it then?
I loved this movie! Highly recommended. I read the novel shortly after seeing the movie (10 years after Oprah selected it). The book is super short and very worthwhile. Read it today if you haven't already!
