Text: German
Dive into the chilling world of political intrigue and disillusionment with Wolfgang Leonhard's seminal work, "Die Revolution entlsst ihre Kinder" (The Revolution Dismisses Its Children). This gripping suspense thriller, available here in its original German edition (Reclam-Bibliothek, 1. Auflage, 1990), is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the inner workings of totalitarian regimes and the human cost of ideological fanaticism. Leonhard, a prominent German political scientist and historian, experienced the very events he so vividly portrays in this captivating novel. Born into a communist family, he was educated in Moscow and became a committed Stalinist. However, witnessing the brutal realities of the Soviet system firsthand led to profound disillusionment. In 1949, Leonhard famously defected to the West, becoming a valuable source of information on the inner circles of the Soviet Union and the German Democratic Republic (GDR). "Die Revolution entlsst ihre Kinder" draws heavily on Leonhard's personal experiences and meticulous research, offering an unflinchingly realistic portrayal of life behind the Iron Curtain. While the title translates literally to "The Revolution Dismisses Its Children," a more nuanced interpretation captures the book's central theme: the revolution inevitably devours its own zealous followers, leaving them broken, betrayed, and questioning everything they once believed. This suspenseful narrative plunges the reader into a world of paranoia, suspicion, and constant surveillance. The characters, many of whom are inspired by real-life figures, grapple with moral dilemmas as they navigate the treacherous landscape of communist power struggles. The novel masterfully builds tension as it exposes the psychological toll of living under constant fear and the devastating consequences of unwavering ideological adherence. Beyond its thrilling plot, "Die Revolution entlsst ihre Kinder" serves as a powerful historical document, providing invaluable insight into the rise and fall of communist regimes in Eastern Europe. Leonhard's firsthand knowledge and insightful analysis make this book a compelling and enduring contribution to our understanding of the 20th century. This Reclam-Bibliothek edition, boasting 649 pages, offers a comprehensive exploration of the themes and events that shaped Leonhard's life and work. Experience the suspense, the intrigue, and the raw human drama of a revolution gone wrong. Don't miss your chance to own this important piece of literary and historical significance.