This is told in an unusual way, focused on a small parcel of land near Berlin, and telling the stories of the land and the people who lived there, slipping back and forth through time and between people in ways that were sometimes disorienting. Content warnings for sexual violence, and basically all the kinds of dehumanization you'd expect in a book that takes place in Germany in a period that encompasses the Second World War. Yes, there are Holocaust horrors here. Focusing on the land was a unique way to form the story, and I found it compelling, even if I did take issue with a few of the author's choices. ( )

This is an interesting book - a slightly quirky take on historical fiction.
using a lakeside house as the stable point, the author weaves the stories of the people coming and going against the history of East Germany in the 20th century as background.
Everything is told subtly. The horrors are referred to, but not directly. No polemics.
I really enjoyed the book and will be back for later books by this author. ( )

What a powerful, small book this is. After a chapter or two I thought of quitting it - didn't like the format - but went ahead, and I am glad I did. The characters are interesting, the plot, such as it can be called a plot, is troubling, clear, painful and eye-opening. The craftswomanship of the writing is wonderful. This is a worthwhile novel that has lingered with me. ( )

The imagery and rhythm of language in this book was gorgeous. Almost like a long poem or an ode to a place and people's experiences and pain. ( )

More poetic and less straightforward than the summary would suggest. I found the form impactful and not forced or overwhelming. Reminded me of a specific poetic structure that I'm sure my sister would know the name of. The author uses the story of this house and land passing through hands as a sort of Vergangenheitsbewältigung. ( )