Summary of EffingersÂ
Set in Germany between 1878 and 1948, “Effingers” is an epic family chronicle centred on three wealthy German–Jewish families, the Effingers, the Goldschmidts, and the Oppners. The novel follows four generations of these interrelated families, as they make their way in life. At the same time, it offers a vivid portrayal of modern German history, particularly in Berlin, spanning the German Empire, the Weimar Republic, and the Nazi era.
Reasons to read Effingers
Gabrielle Tergit’s historical family novel “Effingers” provides a window into life in Berlin at the close of the 19th century and through the first half of the 20th century. Partly inspired by the author’s own family history, it is a compelling family saga with colourful characters and detailed descriptions of food, fashion, and social gatherings – all set against the backdrop of a nation in full transformation. Gabrielle Tergit was a German journalist and bestselling author (particularly with her satirical novel “Käsebier Takes Berlin”), but she was forced to flee Germany in 1933, and her work gradually fell into obscurity. “Effingers” was republished in Germany in 2019 and has since re-emerged as a bestseller and a rediscovered classic.
Original title: Effingers
Year of publication: 1951
Nr of pages: 704
