It is very interesting to revisit The Tin Drum in light of the revelation that Grass was in the Waffen SS as a young man. Grass’s defense of that time in his life is completely credible, but knowledge of that period of his life puts a different twist on the book.

On loan from Mike J (and a strong recommendation from Benjy).

Quickly became a favorite. The line between reality and fantastical interpretation of one’s surroundings was thin. Repeatedly I’d think that I misinterpreted what I read, only to discover the episode confirmed. The Tin Drum is like no other book I’ve read.