Reading tips part II: Youth & children’s books
A few days ago, we shared the first part of our German reading tips with you. Today, we’re back with a second round—perfect for diving deeper into German literature, not just to boost your language skills but also to read for pure enjoyment.
Here are our next picks—let us know if you’d like us to put together a third part with more contemporary recommendations!
4. Tintenherz (2008)
If you enjoy fantasy novels, Cornelia Funke’s Tintenherz is a must-read. The story follows Meggie and her father, who has the magical ability to bring book characters to life simply by reading aloud. What seems like a gift at first soon turns dangerous, as both father and daughter find themselves fleeing from villains and caught in a struggle between fiction and reality. Meggie’s adventure doesn’t end here – it continues in two sequels, Tintenblut and Tintentod. Give it a try!
5. Max und Moritz (1865)
Written and illustrated by Wilhelm Busch in 1865, Max und Moritz is considered one of the first German comics. Told in seven mischievous “picture stories,” the book follows two boys who delight in playing cruel tricks on their neighbors. While their pranks are amusing at first, the tale ends with a harsh lesson. Despite its grim ending, the book was originally published as children’s literature, aiming to teach morals and proper behavior in line with 19th-century values. Today, Max und Moritz remains a classic, offering not only humor and mischief but also insight into how children’s books once served as moral education.
6. Grimm’s Fairy Tales (1812)
The Brothers Grimm are world-famous for their collection of European fairy tales. Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm were the first to write down the folk stories they gathered, preserving them for future generations. Today, their tales are known across the globe, translated into over 160 languages and adapted into countless editions—including simplified German versions for learners. Reading Grimm’s stories is a wonderful way to explore German literature and history while improving your language skills. From Rapunzel and The Frog Prince to Hänsel and Gretel, there’s a fairy tale for everyone—pick your favorite and step into the world of the Grimms!
Enjoy! ✨
