Hella S. Haasse
Hella S. Haasse was a renowned Dutch author known for her historical novels and literary works. She gained international recognition for her contributions to literature and is considered one of the most important Dutch writers of the 20th century.
Books
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.
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1. Forever a Stranger
A Novel of the Dutch East Indies
"Forever a Stranger" is a historical novel set in the 19th-century Dutch East Indies, now known as Indonesia. It tells the story of Rudolf, a half-Dutch, half-Javanese boy, who is raised by his Dutch father after his Javanese mother's death. Throughout his life, Rudolf grapples with his mixed heritage and struggles to find a sense of belonging, experiencing the harsh realities of colonialism and the cultural divide between the Dutch and the Javanese. The narrative provides a critical examination of colonialism and its impact on identity, culture, and society.
The 1550th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. The Black Lake
A Novel of the Dutch East Indies
The novel explores the complex relationship between a Dutch colonial family and their Indonesian servants on a tea plantation in the Dutch East Indies. Through the eyes of a young boy, the narrative delves into themes of cultural tension, power dynamics, and the innocence of childhood amidst the backdrop of impending change as Indonesia moves towards independence. The story captures the nuances of loyalty, friendship, and the inevitable shifts in societal structures, reflecting on the personal and political upheavals of the time.
The 4531st Greatest Book of All Time -
3. In A Dark Wood Wandering
A Novel of the Middle Ages
Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous Hundred Years' War, the novel follows the life of Charles d'Orléans, a French nobleman and poet, as he navigates the complexities of political intrigue, personal loss, and the search for identity. Captured and held prisoner in England for many years, Charles reflects on his past, grappling with themes of duty, love, and the passage of time. The narrative intricately weaves historical events with Charles's introspective journey, highlighting the tension between the demands of power and the solace found in art and poetry.
The 4531st Greatest Book of All Time
