Fitzek loves giving books - but joy is lacking - Fitzek loves giving books - but joy is lacking
Sebastian Fitzek, one of Germany’s most successful thriller writers, has revealed an unexpected challenge during the holiday season. Despite his love for giving books as Christmas gifts, the bestselling author finds that recipients often doubt their value.
Fitzek, known for hits like The Neighbor—the most-read hardcover book of 2025 according to Media Control—has long enjoyed sharing books with others. Yet, in a recent interview with Stern, he admitted that friends and family rarely show excitement when he hands them a novel. Many assume he receives free copies from publishers and is simply passing on unwanted books.
Ironically, Fitzek himself prefers receiving books as gifts. But he noted that people often avoid giving him books for the same reason—they believe he already has endless free copies at his disposal.
The author’s experience highlights a quirky side effect of his success. While Fitzek continues to give books as presents, his recipients’ scepticism remains. His latest novel, The Neighbor, still dominates bestseller lists, proving his enduring popularity in Germany.
