Some books have captivated readers in Germany for decades and, alongside current new releases, always make it onto the bestseller lists.
Well, the best-selling books of all time might be a bit of an exaggeration. The Allensbach Institute and the specialist magazine Buchreport have “only” determined the best-selling books in Germany since 1961 and 1971.
So if you want to know which books have particularly excited people in this country over the last 65 years and which should actually be on every bookshelf, you should read on now.
1. “The Neverending Story” by Michael Ende
Michael Ende's "The Neverending Story" is not only one of the best-selling books of the last 65 years - and was at the top of the bestseller list for over 111 weeks - but also a timeless classic of German literature. Bastian Balthasar Bux's magical journey into the realm of fantasy has captivated generations of readers and continues to shape fantasy literature worldwide today.
With its profound message about courage, friendship and the power of imagination, this masterpiece belongs on every bookshelf - an everlasting treasure for young and old.
2. “The Shaman” by Noah Gordon
“The Shaman” by Noah Gordon is the rousing sequel to his global success “The Medicus” (order here from Thalia*).
The gripping story follows Rob J. Cole, the descendant of the famous physician, to 19th century America, where he finds his way as a doctor and surgeon against all odds. With a successful mix of history, medicine and moving family fates, Gordon has thrilled millions of readers for years.
3. “Love in the Time of Cholera” by Gabriel García Márquez
In “Love in the Time of Cholera,” Gabriel García Márquez takes us on a journey through the ups and downs of a love that has lasted half a century.
The story of Florentino Ariza and Fermina Daza is a sensitive tale about longing, loss and the immortality of feelings. With his unmistakable magical realism, the Nobel Prize winner for literature creates a poetic world that continues to touch readers today. A timeless masterpiece about the power of love that belongs on every bookshelf.
4. "Sofie's World" by Jostein Gaarder
With “Sofie’s World,” Jostein Gaarder has created a unique work that has brought the world of philosophy closer to millions of readers. In the form of a captivating story, the novel takes young Sofie on an exciting journey through the big questions of life and the thoughts of the most important philosophers.
Gaarder's blend of storytelling and philosophy lessons made the book an international bestseller and a cult classic that continues to inspire young and old today. Have you read it yet? If not, then you should definitely do so.
5. “Salt on Our Skin” by Benoîte Groult
Benoîte Groult's "Salt on Our Skin" is a modern classic about a love that overcomes all differences. The novel tells of the passionate affair between an intellectual Parisian woman and a Breton fisherman - two people from completely different worlds who are drawn to each other throughout their lives.
Groult writes with great sensitivity about passion, longing and the freedom to follow his heart. A novel that was at the top of the bestseller lists for a total of 61 weeks for a reason.
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