Book Club in German

in his novel Als wir das Wunder waren, Misha Schoeneberg, takes us on a journey through the youth of a generation growing up in Berlin during the 1980s, a city in transition between political upheavals and personal self-discovery. In a time of division, when the music scene was defined by creativity, resistance, and sexual liberation, Joshua searches for his place in a world filled with uncertainty and change. A central aspect of the novel is Joshua’s relationship with Till Traven, a charismatic musician whose life and personality bear striking parallels to Rio Reiser – although Schoeneberg assures us that this is not a Rio Reiser novel. The relationship between the two men is defined by passion, music, and sexual freedom, weaving together artistic and personal revolutions into a story of transformation.

The novel captures a feeling of life that is familiar to many of us in Berlin – a city in constant flux, where identity, personal growth, and the struggle with oneself are reflected. In sharp moments, a story unfolds that is both personal and universal. It raises questions about our past and future – offering us an intoxicating time travel into Berlin’s punk era.

Nils Philippis an art and architecture educator as well as a poet, photographer and decorator. After gaining insightful experiences as a janitor, lifeguard and deli vendor, he now works, among other things, as a bookseller. While he is waiting for his breakthrough as writer or art director, he reads plenty and with pleasure.

About the Village Book Club
• Book lovers and bookworms have been meeting on a bimonthly basis to discuss works of fiction and non-fiction (novels, biographies, and essays) focused on or related to LGBTQIA+ themes and personalities.
• Anticipating insightful discussions, we choose the next book two months in advance.
• While the evening discussions are conducted in German, participants are welcome to read the selected books in their preferred language.
• Free event without registration