Nils geht

Perpetrators, victims, and the silent majority. When people act in groups, social stratifications quickly emerge. There are those who set the tone and lead the way, those who gain attention in their shadow, the loud barkers, and the quiet strategists. Some are silent observers, while others keep out of everything. Then there are the doormats, the targets, who are used to work off what is lacking elsewhere. These groupings can also be found in the class community of a public school, a miniature image of society. Here, it is "the terrible four": mostly children of wealthy parents, accustomed to holding the reins, being on top, and displaying emotional coldness. They have a clear victim: Nils. There is also Sara, who stands in between, wanting to save herself and remaining silent when she should speak. Who bears which responsibility? Where does self-protection end, and where does moral courage begin?

These are the big social questions and complex problems of social interaction that Gabi Kreslehner skillfully addresses in her new novel for young people. She interrupts the flow of the story with interrogations by police psychologists, foreshadowing what the plot will ultimately lead to while providing sensitive insights into the mental state and motivations of the young people. It shows how difficult courage can be, how deeply words can hurt, and what is ultimately the driving force behind everything: the longing for love, recognition, and respect.

One cannot run away from almost nothing.

Tips: social systems and processes, the power and might of words. Awards: In September 2021, the title was awarded the KIMI book seal for diversity in books for children and young people.