50 pages 1 hour read

Jenny Erpenbeck

Go, Went, Gone

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Go, Went, Gone by Jenny Erpenbeck follows Richard, a retired German philology professor, as he befriends and tries to assist a group of African refugees in Berlin. Initially unsure how to fill his time, Richard's perspective changes after encountering the refugees protesting for work and housing rights. His efforts to help them navigate bureaucratic barriers reveal the severity of their plight and inspire him to offer support and friendship. The book addresses themes of displacement, immigration policy, and human connection. This book contains themes of violence, death, and trauma related to the refugees' experiences.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Jenny Erpenbeck's Go, Went, Gone is lauded for its poignant exploration of Europe's refugee crisis, blending profound empathy with a reflective narrative. Critics praise its emotional depth, nuanced character development, and stark societal commentary. However, some find its pace slow and narrative style distant. Overall, it's an impactful read on human displacement.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Go, Went, Gone?

Readers who would enjoy Go, Went, Gone by Jenny Erpenbeck are those interested in contemporary social issues, particularly immigration and displacement. Fans of The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead or Exit West by Mohsin Hamid will appreciate its poignant exploration of human rights and identity within modern society.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Values/Ideas: Music

Genre

Modern Classic Fiction

Topics

History: World

Politics / Government