The Greatest German Autobiography Books of All Time
Click to learn how this list is calculated.
This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 467 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.
Genres
Autobiography is a literary genre that focuses on the life story of the author. It is a first-person account of the author's experiences, thoughts, and emotions, often including significant events and milestones that have shaped their life. Autobiographies can be written by anyone, from famous public figures to ordinary people, and can cover a wide range of topics, including personal growth, career achievements, struggles, and relationships. This genre provides readers with a unique insight into the author's life and perspective, making it a popular and engaging category of books.
Countries
Date Range
Reading Statistics
Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!
Download
If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.
Download-
1. Anton Reiser by Karl Philipp Moritz
ein psychologischer Roman
"Anton Reiser" is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the life of a young man growing up in a strict, religious family in Germany during the 18th century. The protagonist struggles with his religious upbringing and societal expectations, while trying to pursue his passion for literature and philosophy. The novel delves into the protagonist's psychological struggles, his quest for self-identity, and his attempts to reconcile his personal desires with the demands of his environment.
The 810th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Mein Kampf by Adolf Hitler
A Reckoning
This book is a two-volume work written by a prominent dictator during his imprisonment in 1924. It outlines his political ideology and future plans for Germany, combining elements of autobiography with an exposition of his views on race, nationality, and governance. The author's main thesis is that the German-speaking 'Aryan' race is superior to all others, and that it is the duty of the state to preserve the purity of this race through policies of racial segregation, expansionism, and extermination. The book also contains detailed discussions on the author's hatred towards Jews, Marxism, and the parliamentary system.
The 894th Greatest Book of All Time -
3. Storm of Steel by Ernst Jünger
"Storm of Steel" is a memoir of a German officer's experiences during World War I. The book provides a detailed account of the daily life in the trenches, the brutal and chaotic nature of warfare, and the psychological impact on the soldiers. The author describes the horrors of war with a sense of detachment, viewing the battlefield as a place where one's character is tested and shaped. Despite the grim subject matter, the memoir is often noted for its poetic language and vivid imagery.
The 1486th Greatest Book of All Time -
4. Memoirs of My Nervous Illness by Daniel Paul Schreber
The Case of Schreber
The book is a personal account of a prominent German judge's struggle with severe mental illness. It provides a detailed and vivid description of his experiences with psychosis, hallucinations, and delusions, which he attributes to divine intervention and cosmic forces. The author's attempt to understand and make sense of his condition forms the core of this memoir, and his insights have been influential in the fields of psychology and psychiatry. His narrative is a unique exploration of the mind and its relationship with reality, providing an intimate perspective on mental illness.
The 1685th Greatest Book of All Time -
5. Patterns of Childhood by Christa Wolf
"Patterns of Childhood" is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores a woman's struggle to reconcile her past as a member of the Hitler Youth in Nazi Germany with her present as a writer in East Germany. The protagonist uses her memories, dreams, and conversations with her brother to confront her guilt and shame over her involvement in the Nazi regime. The narrative shifts between past and present, creating a complex and layered exploration of guilt, memory, and the process of coming to terms with a traumatic past.
The 2672nd Greatest Book of All Time -
6. Floreana: A Woman's Pilgrimage to the Galapagos by Margret Wittmer
Ein Tagebuch aus dem Paradies
The book recounts the adventurous journey of a woman and her family as they leave behind their conventional life in Germany to settle on the remote and uninhabited island of Floreana in the Galapagos. It details their struggles and triumphs in adapting to the harsh and isolated environment, building a new life from scratch, and interacting with the unique wildlife and occasional visitors. Through perseverance and resilience, the family transforms the island into a home, offering a vivid portrayal of survival, self-discovery, and the beauty of living in harmony with nature.
The 4282nd Greatest Book of All Time -
7. Berlin Childhood Around 1900 by Walter Benjamin
The book is a reflective exploration of the author's early years in Berlin, capturing the essence of childhood memories and the city's atmosphere at the turn of the 20th century. Through a series of vignettes, the author delves into the sensory experiences and emotional landscapes of his youth, offering a poignant meditation on memory, time, and the interplay between personal history and urban environment. The narrative weaves together themes of nostalgia and the fleeting nature of childhood, providing a rich tapestry of impressions that evoke the cultural and social milieu of pre-World War I Berlin.
The 4705th Greatest Book of All Time -
8. The Past Is Myself by Christabel Bielenberg
The Memoirs of a British Woman in Nazi Germany
"The Past Is Myself" is a memoir of an Englishwoman who married a German lawyer and lived through the Second World War in Nazi Germany. The book provides a personal account of the challenges and moral dilemmas she faced during this tumultuous period, offering a unique perspective on life under the Third Reich. Her narrative captures the fear, courage, and resilience of ordinary people caught in the grip of a totalitarian regime, as well as her own journey of adapting to a foreign culture and confronting the horrors of war and oppression. The author's experiences highlight the complexities of identity, loyalty, and survival in a time of pervasive political terror.
The 5027th Greatest Book of All Time -
9. Friedrich Hebbels Tagebücher by Friedrich Hebbel
The book is a collection of personal diaries by a 19th-century German playwright and poet, offering a deep and introspective look into his thoughts, creative process, and the socio-political landscape of his time. Through candid entries, the author reflects on his struggles, ambitions, and the intricacies of human nature, providing valuable insights into his literary works and the cultural milieu of the era. The diaries serve as a rich historical document, capturing the intellectual and emotional life of a prominent literary figure.
The 5303rd Greatest Book of All Time -
10. Gedanken Und Erinnerungen by Otto von Bismarck
The book is a reflective memoir by a prominent 19th-century statesman, offering insights into his political career and personal life. It delves into his role in the unification of Germany, his diplomatic strategies, and his interactions with key historical figures. Through a detailed recounting of events and decisions, the author provides a unique perspective on the complexities of governance and the challenges of leadership during a transformative period in European history. The narrative also explores his thoughts on power, nationalism, and the balance of maintaining peace and asserting influence on the global stage.
The 5303rd Greatest Book of All Time -
11. Walls by Hiltgunt Zassenhaus
Resisting the Third Reich: One Woman's Story
"Walls: Resisting The Third Reich" is a powerful memoir of courage and defiance, recounting the experiences of a young German woman during World War II who risked her life to oppose the Nazi regime. Working as an interpreter in the German courts, she secretly aided Scandinavian prisoners of war, passing along messages and providing them with hope and support. Her clandestine activities, carried out under the constant threat of discovery and execution, showcase the profound bravery and moral conviction required to resist oppression from within the very heart of a totalitarian state. The narrative not only captures the personal struggle against tyranny but also serves as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resistance and solidarity in the face of overwhelming adversity.
The 5564th Greatest Book of All Time -
12. Still Alive by Ruth Klüger
A Holocaust Girlhood Remembered
The book is a poignant memoir that recounts the harrowing experiences of a Jewish girl during the Holocaust. It delves into her childhood in Nazi-occupied Vienna, her survival through multiple concentration camps, and her eventual liberation. The narrative is not only a testament to resilience and survival but also a critical reflection on memory, trauma, and the complexities of post-war life. Through candid and introspective prose, the author challenges conventional narratives of victimhood and heroism, offering a nuanced perspective on the enduring impact of the Holocaust on personal and collective identity.
The 5760th Greatest Book of All Time -
13. Krieg Ohne Schlacht by Heiner Müller
Leben in zwei Diktaturen
The book is a reflective exploration of the life and work of a prominent East German playwright and poet, offering insights into his creative process and the socio-political landscape of East Germany. Through a series of interviews and essays, it delves into themes of power, identity, and the role of art in society, while also addressing the complexities of living and working under a socialist regime. The narrative provides a candid look at the intersections of personal and political experiences, revealing the challenges and contradictions faced by artists in a divided Germany.
The 5760th Greatest Book of All Time -
14. Arbeit Und Struktur by Wolfgang Herrndorf
Kein Tagebuch
The book is a poignant and introspective account of the author's battle with terminal brain cancer, offering a raw and unfiltered glimpse into his thoughts and emotions as he navigates the final stages of his life. Through a series of diary entries, the author reflects on the nature of existence, creativity, and the human condition, all while grappling with the physical and psychological challenges posed by his illness. The narrative is marked by a blend of dark humor, philosophical musings, and a profound sense of vulnerability, providing readers with an intimate portrait of a man confronting his mortality with courage and introspection.
The 7957th Greatest Book of All Time -
15. Chronik Meiner Straße by Barbara Honigmann
Geschichten aus der Nachbarschaft
The book is a reflective and intimate exploration of life in a small street in Strasbourg, where the author resides. Through a series of vignettes, it captures the essence of the neighborhood and its diverse inhabitants, weaving together personal anecdotes, historical insights, and cultural observations. The narrative delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the passage of time, offering a poignant and nuanced portrait of community life and the interconnectedness of individual stories within a shared space.
The 8272nd Greatest Book of All Time -
16. Of Walking In Ice by Werner Herzog
Munich - Paris, 23 November - 14 December 1974
In a raw and introspective journey, the author embarks on a solitary trek from Munich to Paris during the harsh winter of 1974, driven by a deep sense of urgency and purpose. This personal pilgrimage, undertaken to visit a gravely ill friend, unfolds as a profound exploration of the human spirit, resilience, and the transformative power of nature. Through vivid descriptions and candid reflections, the narrative captures the physical and emotional challenges faced along the way, offering a glimpse into the author's inner world and the profound connections forged with the landscapes traversed.
The 8963rd Greatest Book of All Time -
17. Marzahn, Mon Amour by Katja Oskamp
A Novel of Berlin
"Marzahn, Mon Amour" is a reflective and poignant narrative that delves into the lives of ordinary people through the lens of a podiatrist working in the Marzahn district of East Berlin. The book offers a tapestry of human stories, as the protagonist encounters a diverse array of clients, each with their own unique backgrounds and experiences. Through the intimate setting of the treatment room, the author weaves together tales of the community's past and present, exploring themes of identity, resilience, and the search for meaning in the day-to-day. This work serves as a touching exploration of the seemingly mundane aspects of life that, upon closer inspection, reveal the depth and complexity of the human condition.
The 9024th Greatest Book of All Time -
18. Vom Aufstehen by Helga Schubert
Ein Leben in Geschichten
The book is a poignant collection of autobiographical stories that explore themes of resilience, memory, and the passage of time. Through a series of vignettes, the author reflects on her experiences growing up in post-war Germany, her complex relationship with her mother, and her own journey through life as a writer and psychologist. The narrative weaves together personal and historical events, offering a deeply introspective look at the challenges and triumphs of overcoming adversity and finding one's voice amidst the echoes of the past.
The 9804th Greatest Book of All Time -
19. Conversations Of Goethe With Johann Peter Eckermann by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Johann Peter Eckermann
In the Last Years of His Life
This book is a compilation of detailed discussions between one of Germany's greatest literary figures and his close friend and secretary, spanning from 1823 to 1832. It offers an intimate glimpse into the mind, thoughts, and philosophies of the celebrated writer, covering a wide array of subjects including literature, art, science, and the nature of human existence. Through these conversations, readers are provided with profound insights into the intellectual landscape of early 19th-century Europe and the personal reflections of a man who shaped modern German literature. The dialogues are not only significant for their historical context but also for their enduring relevance to contemporary discussions on culture and creativity.
The 11239th Greatest Book of All Time -
20. Conquest Of The Useless by Werner Herzog
Reflections from the Making of Fitzcarraldo
"Conquest of the Useless" is a reflective memoir that presents a collection of the author's diary entries written during the tumultuous production of a major film in the early 1980s. Set in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, the narrative captures the intense challenges faced by the film crew, ranging from logistical nightmares and clashing personalities to confrontations with nature and local cultures. The author's poetic and introspective prose delves into the emotional and existential upheavals experienced during the making of the film, revealing his relentless determination and the surreal experiences encountered in a remote and demanding setting.
The 11709th Greatest Book of All Time -
21. Ecce Homo by Friedrich Nietzsche
How One Becomes What One Is
This philosophical autobiography offers a profound insight into the mind of one of the most influential thinkers of the 19th century. Through a series of essays, the author reflects on his life, works, and the development of his philosophical ideas, presenting his own critique of modern culture, morality, and the essence of human nature. With a provocative and often controversial tone, the book challenges conventional beliefs and encourages readers to reevaluate their perspectives on truth, religion, and the concept of the "Übermensch." It stands as a bold declaration of the author's intellectual independence and a cornerstone of existential thought.
The 12391st Greatest Book of All Time -
22. Dichtung Und Wahrheit by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Aus meinem Leben
This autobiographical work offers a rich and introspective account of the author's early life, intellectual development, and the cultural milieu of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It delves into his formative experiences, relationships, and the evolution of his thoughts and literary career. The narrative not only provides insights into the author's personal journey but also reflects on the broader human experience, exploring themes of truth, art, and the interplay between personal reality and creative expression. Through a blend of poetic storytelling and philosophical musings, the book presents a nuanced exploration of the shaping of an individual's identity and the forces that influence the creative process.
The 12698th Greatest Book of All Time -
23. Italian Journey by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
The book is a classic travel memoir that chronicles the author's journey through Italy from 1786 to 1788. During his travels, he explores the rich cultural heritage, art, and history of the country, seeking to understand the influence of classical antiquity and the Renaissance on contemporary European thought. The narrative is a blend of personal reflections, detailed descriptions of the landscapes, cities, and people he encounters, as well as musings on art and literature. The author's experiences in Italy mark a significant period of personal growth and intellectual development, profoundly impacting his subsequent literary work and contributing to the broader European cultural movement known as Weimar Classicism.
The 12716th Greatest Book of All Time -
24. Peeling the Onion by Günter Grass
"Peeling the Onion" is a memoir that explores the author's experiences during and after World War II. The author, a Nobel laureate, reveals his involvement with the Waffen SS, a paramilitary organization of the Nazi party, when he was a teenager. The book delves into the author's struggle with guilt and memory, his journey to becoming a writer, and his exploration of how personal and collective memory impact our understanding of history. It is a candid, introspective look at the complexities of identity, morality, and truth.
The 14069th Greatest Book of All Time -
25. Belonging by Nora Krug
A German Reckons with History and Home
The book is a graphic memoir that explores the author's journey to understand her family's history and her own identity as a German in the post-World War II era. Through a blend of illustrations, photographs, and narrative, the author delves into her family's past, uncovering stories of relatives who lived through the Nazi regime. As she grapples with the legacy of her heritage, she reflects on themes of guilt, memory, and the complex nature of belonging, ultimately seeking reconciliation with her country's troubled history and her place within it.
The 14069th Greatest Book of All Time
Reading Statistics
Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!
Download
If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.
Download