Heiner Koechlin (1918-1996)

Almost everyone knows the antiquarian bookshop Koechlin on Basel's Spalenberg, but only a few know its founder Heiner Koechlin and his history. As an editor and author of journals and books, he was an astute analyst of his time and of contemporary political events. As a political thinker, he was a visionary chronicler and fighter for social justice and equality. Consistent and uncomfortable are his non-ideological critical approach to the century of great ideologies and his struggle for positions, which come to light in his often timelessly topical journalistic work. Based on his memoirs, the two authors tell Koechlin's story and thus provide a new view of Basel in the 20th century. The biography is accompanied by a new edition of essays, articles and literary texts by Heiner Koechlin.