The book is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the early years of a young girl born in Japan to Belgian parents. It delves into the protagonist's experiences and perceptions from her infancy through her toddler years, presenting a philosophical and introspective look at the development of consciousness and identity. The narrative is characterized by its exploration of the Japanese concept of 'the third brother,' which symbolizes the child's pre-linguistic state of purity and potential, and the transition from this state to becoming a sentient individual with a unique character shaped by cultural and familial influences. The story is a blend of whimsy and depth, reflecting on the nature of being and the transformative journey of self-discovery from the earliest moments of life.

"Egmont" is a tragic play set in the 16th-century Spanish-occupied Netherlands, focusing on the life of a nobleman who becomes a hero among the Dutch people for his resistance against the oppressive Spanish rule. The protagonist's political and romantic involvements lead him into conflict with the Spanish authorities, culminating in his arrest and execution. Despite his tragic end, his sacrifice becomes a symbol of national resistance and inspires a successful uprising against the foreign dominators. The play explores themes of freedom, tyranny, and the personal costs of political engagement, blending historical drama with romantic elements.

"Mémoires" is a seminal work of French literature, providing a detailed account of late medieval European politics from the perspective of a diplomat and historian who served various masters, including the Dukes of Burgundy and the French king Louis XI. The author offers a rich narrative of the power struggles, diplomatic maneuvers, and courtly intrigues of his time, while also reflecting on the nature of governance, the ethics of leadership, and the unpredictability of fortune. His observations and analyses have made the work an invaluable resource for understanding the political and social dynamics of 15th-century Europe, as well as a pioneering example of political memoir.

"The Sleepwalkers" by Christopher Clark is a comprehensive account of the events leading up to World War I. The book argues that the war was not caused by any one nation or individual, but rather a combination of factors including nationalism, alliances, and miscommunication. Clark explores the complex political landscape of Europe in the early 20th century and the actions of key players such as Kaiser Wilhelm II and Archduke Franz Ferdinand. The book provides a detailed analysis of the events leading up to the war and challenges traditional narratives of blame and responsibility.

"War and Turpentine" by Stefan Hertmans is a historical novel that follows the life of the author's grandfather, Urbain Martien, who lived through both World War I and II. The book is divided into three parts: Urbain's childhood in poverty-stricken Belgium, his experiences as a soldier in WWI, and his life as a struggling artist after the war. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the impact of war on individuals and society. Through Martien's story, Hertmans paints a vivid picture of a bygone era and the struggles faced by those who lived through it.

In the novel, a young philosopher and his wife discover what they believe to be a lost masterpiece by a famous Renaissance artist in a dilapidated country house. As the protagonist becomes increasingly obsessed with proving the painting's authenticity and securing it for himself, he plunges headlong into a series of comic and tense situations. The narrative cleverly intertwines themes of art history, morality, and human folly, all while satirizing academic pretensions and the art world's eccentricities.