The Reader by Bernhard Schlink

Read by Campbell Scott

An unabridged production

It was just a coincidence … fifteen-year-old Michael Berg becomes ill on his way to school and he is dramatically rescued by Hanna. His rescuer, Hanna, is twice his age and in time becomes his lover. Michael falls head-over-heels in love with Hanna; beguiled by her interest and passion. There’s one odd thing.  Hanna never speaks about her past, especially the war years (World War II). This puzzles him and he is even more confused when she simply disappears from his life.

Years later, Michael is a law student and he sees Hanna once again as the defendant in a gripping war crimes trial.  Hanna is on trial for a cruel and inhuman war crime; a crime of unfathomable treachery.  He can’t believe what he is hearing and feels confused and betrayed on many levels.  Michael slowly realizes that Hanna may be guarding a secret she considers more shameful than murder.