Marlen Haushofer

Marlen Haushofer was an Austrian author known for her novels, short stories, and children's books. Her most famous work is 'The Wall' (Die Wand), a dystopian novel that explores themes of isolation and survival.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Wall

    The book is a profound exploration of isolation and survival, following a woman who finds herself unexpectedly cut off from the rest of the world by an invisible, impenetrable wall. With the rest of humanity seemingly vanished, she must come to terms with her solitary existence in a remote forested area, accompanied only by a few animals. As she adapts to her new reality, tending to the land and the creatures that become her companions, the narrative delves into themes of self-reliance, the intrinsic connection between humans and nature, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable circumstances. Through her introspective journey, the protagonist examines the essence of her being and the meaning of life when stripped of society and its constructs.

    The 1479th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. Killing Stella

    Left alone in her house for the weekend, a woman reflects on how the arrival of her friend’s teenage daughter, Stella, intensifies the tensions in her already troubled family. Watching from the window as her unfaithful husband, brooding son and distracted daughter go about their lives, she becomes increasingly anxious, and the household’s simmering unease builds into a tense, claustrophobic domestic drama.

    The 6819th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. Dans La Mansarde

    Set in a small Austrian town, the narrative delves into the life of a middle-aged woman who finds herself trapped in the monotony of domestic life. As she retreats to the attic of her home, she begins to explore her inner world, reflecting on her past and the choices that have led her to this point. Through her introspective journey, she grapples with themes of identity, isolation, and the societal expectations placed upon women, ultimately seeking a sense of freedom and self-discovery amidst the confines of her existence.

  4. 4. The Loft

    Set in a small Austrian town, the narrative delves into the life of a middle-aged woman who finds herself trapped in the monotony of domesticity and societal expectations. As she navigates her daily routines, she retreats to the loft of her home, a space that becomes a sanctuary for her thoughts and reflections. Through introspective musings and poignant observations, she confronts her inner turmoil, grappling with themes of identity, freedom, and the constraints imposed by her environment. The story unfolds with a quiet intensity, offering a profound exploration of the human condition and the quest for self-discovery amidst the mundane.