The Recent East

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Shortly after the Berlin Wall falls, Beate Haas, who defected from East Germany as a child, learns that her parents' abandoned mansion is available for reclamation. Newly divorced and seeking to escape her bleak life in upstate New York, she moves back with her two teenagers, only to find a city transformed into a ghost town. This relocation strains the siblings' bond: Michael embraces his freedom as a gay man, engaging in looting and anarchist parties, while Adela, captivated by Holocaust horrors, immerses herself in books and connects with a newfound cousin. The town evolves from a desolate area to a refuge for the displaced, a neo-Nazi stronghold, and finally a desirable seaside resort. Amid these changes, two episodes of tragic violence irrevocably impact the family. The narrative fluidly navigates decades and the inner lives of unforgettable characters, creating a multigenerational epic that explores the complexities of leaving and returning home. With humor, beautiful prose, and a deep understanding of history and heritage, this profound tale captures a family's struggle with displacement and loss, showcasing the debut of a remarkable storyteller.