Kindheit

Of breathtaking intensity and beauty. From the dust of her life, this work shines. Elke Heidenreich, Spiegel Online

Magnificent, with a hypnotic quality. The New York Times

In "Childhood," Tove Ditlevsen recounts her upbringing in 1920s Copenhagen in modest circumstances. Tove does not fit in there; her childhood seems made for another girl. The mother is distant, and the father loses his job as a stoker. On Sundays, Tove has to go get pastries for the family, as much as she can fit in her bag, and that is all there is to eat. Together with her friend, the wild redhead Ruth, Tove explores the city. Ruth shows her where the prostitutes stand and goes stealing with her. But Tove is actually interested in the world of books and has a burning desire to become a writer – and for that, she is ready to leave behind the life that seems preordained for her.

The portrait of a woman who decisively makes her life her own. A life so free and untamed; I am immersed in Tove Ditlevsen's books. Nina Hoss

Tove Ditlevsen's Copenhagen Trilogy, it is already clear, is one of the great literary events of the year. Süddeutsche Zeitung

A masterpiece. The Guardian

It is no coincidence that Tove Ditlevsen is being rediscovered not only in Germany but also in the English-speaking world. Her incisive prose has been compared to that of Annie Ernaux, who was also discovered in Germany very late. The comparison is justified, even as both authors are singular in their own right. What connects them is their ability to withstand an adverse reality. In life, and if not in life, then in literature. taz

A monumental author. Patti Smith.