The novel tells the story of Oskar Matzerath, a boy who decides on his third birthday that he will stop growing and remain a three-year-old forever. Oskar is gifted with a tin drum by his mother, which he uses to express his emotions and thoughts. Living in Danzig during the rise of Nazi Germany, Oskar's refusal to grow is a form of protest against the adult world. The book is a blend of magical realism and historical fiction, providing a unique perspective on the horrors of World War II and the post-war era in Germany.

Set during the Holocaust in a Jewish ghetto in Poland, the novel revolves around a man named Jacob who fabricates the news of the Russian Army's advancement to uplift the spirits of his fellow prisoners. However, as his lies gain traction, they become a beacon of hope for the desperate people in the ghetto, leading to unforeseen consequences. The book explores themes of hope, despair, and the power of words, ultimately questioning the morality of lying for a greater good.

This novel is a collection of interconnected short stories set during World War II, providing a vivid portrayal of the human costs of war. The narrative follows various characters including soldiers, civilians, and victims of war, each offering different perspectives on the realities of war. It explores themes of loss, survival, and the moral ambiguities of war, highlighting the author's anti-war sentiments.

"The Blind Side of the Heart" is a historical novel that explores the life of a German woman before, during, and after World War II. The story begins with her abandonment of her young son at a railway station, then flashes back to her own childhood, her experiences during the war, and her tumultuous relationships. The narrative provides a deep and unflinching look at the psychological effects of war and the struggle for survival, as well as the profound impact of trauma and loss.