Reporter Thomas Steinhvel bereist Europa an all seinen Wundern und Wunden, von seinem Wohnort in der Schweiz aus nach Skandinavien, wo das Blut der Fische heller ist und Frauen anders lieben, in die Wlder der Karpaten, wo ein uralter Berg Gold birgt, viel Gold, die Bewohner aber, um Geld zu verdienen, zum Erdbeerpflcken nach Spanien gehen oder nach Norwegen auf eine Bohrinsel. Er ist dabei, wie im tieferen Sdosten in einem Land, das den jngsten Krieg in Europa erlitt, gemordet wird, einfach weil Menschen eben so sind, wie sie sind, oder weil sie aussagen wollen in Den Haag, um die Kriegsverbrecher und Mrder anzuklagen. Urs Mannhart, der Autor, verliert nie die Menschen aus dem Blick. Er verbindet mit lakonisch genauer Sprache Geschichten voller Leben, aufgeladen durch die politischen und sozialen Spannungen in Europa, er zieht die Fden zwischen all diesen Schicksalen, den verschiedenen Arten zu lieben, zu lachen, den schnen und den furchtbaren Erlebnissen, dem Mut wie der Hoffnung, der Chancenlosigkeit wie dem zarten, fragilen Glck. Urs Mannhart stellt durch seinen packenden Roman die Frage nach Recht und Gerechtigkeit in Europa und konfrontiert uns mit einer zersplitterten, einer widersprchlichen Identitt unseres Kontinents.
**Bergsteigen im Flachland: A Gripping Journey Through the Heart of Modern Europe by Urs Mannhart** Embark on a profound and unforgettable literary journey with Urs Mannhart's critically acclaimed novel, "Bergsteigen im Flachland" (Mountaineering in the Lowlands). This captivating hardcover, published by Secession Verlag, takes you on a reporter's odyssey across the diverse landscapes and complex realities of contemporary Europe. Through the eyes of Thomas Steinhvel, we witness the continent's beauty and its scars, its hopes and its disillusionments. Mannhart, a master storyteller known for his precise and evocative prose, weaves together a tapestry of interconnected narratives that explore the political and social tensions simmering beneath the surface of a seemingly unified Europe. From his home base in Switzerland, Steinhvel travels to the far reaches of Scandinavia, where he encounters unique customs and perspectives, and delves into the ancient forests of the Carpathians, where the lure of hidden gold clashes with the harsh realities of economic hardship. The novel unflinchingly confronts the darker aspects of European life. Steinhvel witnesses acts of violence and injustice in a country scarred by recent war, forcing him (and the reader) to grapple with the complexities of human nature and the search for accountability. He bears witness to individuals courageously seeking justice at The Hague, striving to bring war criminals to account. "Bergsteigen im Flachland" is more than just a travelogue; it's a powerful exploration of the human condition. Mannhart's keen eye for detail and his empathetic portrayal of his characters allow us to connect with their struggles, their joys, and their unwavering resilience in the face of adversity. He masterfully interweaves stories of love, loss, hope, and despair, creating a rich and nuanced portrait of a continent grappling with its identity. This impressive work (661 pages, weighing 780g) published in 2014, invites readers to contemplate fundamental questions about justice, fairness, and the very essence of European identity. Prepare to be challenged, moved, and deeply engrossed in this thought-provoking and unforgettable novel that has resonated with readers and critics alike. It's a compelling read for anyone interested in contemporary literature, European history, and the human stories that shape our world. A literary "must-read" for those seeking a deep and insightful understanding of modern Europe.