Collection of Four Novels and Short Story Volumes from the Lower Rhine Region
New Literary Gems from Krefeld
In the vibrant city of Krefeld, Germany, local authors are making waves in the literary world with their new publications. Here are some noteworthy works that have recently graced the bookshelves.
Wilhelm Rennebaum, a former banker and financial advisor, has ventured into a new realm with his debut collection of short stories titled "Time Travels." Published by Shaker Verlag in 2024, this intriguing collection costs 18.90 Euro and spans various themes and time periods. One of the stories follows young Alma Mahler's visit to Krefeld in 1902 for the "Tonart Exhibition."
Torsten Weiler, a journalist at WDR, has also made his literary debut with "The Silk Weaver," inspired by his family history. This historical novel is set in Krefeld during the 19th century when the silk industry was prosperous. The plot revolves around a family mystery surrounding the late marriage of Gustav's parents, with Gustav, the main character, being the son of a baker who dreams of becoming a silk weaver. His journey involves navigating a city marked by violence, poverty, and revolts, and he falls in love with a mysterious woman.
Reinhard Struven, a novelist born in Krefeld, has drawn on his experiences as an elderly care worker and social worker in his third novel, "House Elbblick." This novel tells the story of Clemens Kleine, an elderly care worker aiming to make a dilapidated nursing home future-proof by activating the diverse skills of its residents. However, a property developer wants to build a profit-oriented senior residence on the plot of House Elbblick, requiring Kleine's home to be demolished.
In a unique collaboration, Hakki Cimen and Sabine Neupert have published a collection of ten Zazaki fairy tales, titled "And Still the Mud Bricks Weep." Five of these stories are traditional, while the other five are newly created. Hakki Cimen, born in 1957, is a Zazaki author and the only teacher of Zazaki in NRW. Sabine Neupert contributes drawings to their collaborative works.
The collection consists of 194 pages and costs 22 Euro. Interestingly, "House Elbblick" also tells the story of Kleine's efforts to turn an unclear relationship into a happy family, making it a compelling read alongside Struven's novel.
Comparing "The Silk Weaver" to other related works, it appears that novels specifically set in Krefeld's historical textile milieu are relatively rare, making Weiler's work notable for its regional focus. The city's textile history serves as a distinctive backdrop that differentiates "The Silk Weaver" from historical novels set in more commonly depicted German cities.
These new publications not only showcase the rich cultural heritage of Krefeld but also offer captivating stories that resonate with readers worldwide. Whether you're a fan of historical fiction, fairy tales, or contemporary short stories, there's something for everyone in these new literary offerings from Krefeld.
Engaging with an eclectic mix of genres, local authors in Krefeld are redefining the city's literary landscape. Beyond the pages of Wilhelm Rennebaum's "Time Travels," books like Torsten Weiler's "The Silk Weaver," Reinhard Struven's "House Elbblick," and the enchanting Zazaki fairy tales collection by Hakki Cimen and Sabine Neupert - "And Still the Mud Bricks Weep" - delve into the vibrant lifestyle, historical pursuits, and contemporary freshes of the city. Each work, entwining tales of love, mystery, and personal journeys, presents readers with a unique insight into the richness of Krefeld's culture and heritage, making them a compelling addition to any entertainment or literature collection.
