German writer and lawyer Ferdinand von Schirach has published his first children's book titled "Alexander". The work, presented at the elite boarding school Louisenlund, combines an adventure plot with education about fundamental human rights, drawing from the German Basic Law. The author, known for adult legal bestsellers, attempts to explain concepts of justice and freedom to young readers in an accessible way.
First children's book in author's repertoire
Ferdinand von Schirach, previously writing for adults, has debuted in children's literature with the book "Alexander".
Adventure based on fundamental rights
The titular character's journey aims to explain fundamental rights and principles of justice to children.
Prestigious presentation location
The book premiered at the exclusive private boarding school Louisenlund, which educates future elites.
Combining entertainment with education
The book uses humor, illustrations, and adventure elements to convey serious content in an attractive way.
Renowned German writer and lawyer Ferdinand von Schirach has ventured into new literary territory by publishing his first children's book titled "Alexander". The publication premiered at the exclusive private boarding school Louisenlund, highlighting the educational and elite nature of the project. The main character, Alexander, embarks on an adventurous journey aimed at finding just laws. The book's plot, accompanied by illustrations and humor, is based on fundamental human rights, drawing directly from provisions of the German Basic Law (Grundgesetz). Von Schirach, author of international bestsellers like "Verbrechen" and "Der Fall Collini", sold in millions of copies, aims to convey the idea of justice to the youngest generation in this way. Ferdinand von Schirach's work has long focused on legal and ethical themes, often in the context of German history and memory of Nazi crimes. His grandfather, Baldur von Schirach, was the leader of the Hitler Youth and Gauleiter of Vienna, convicted in the Nuremberg trials. The writer has repeatedly addressed themes of guilt, responsibility, and legal mechanisms in his prose.According to reviews, the book combines light, adventurous form with serious, educational messaging, which represents a novelty in the author's previous body of work dominated by crime novels and courtroom dramas. The narrative also includes contemporary allusions, including references to the figure of Donald Trump. „Ich glaube, Kinder verstehen Ungerechtigkeit oft besser als Erwachsene. Ich wollte ihnen zeigen, dass Grundrechte keine trockenen Paragrafen sind, sondern eine Geschichte darüber, wie wir einander behandeln sollten.” (I believe children often understand injustice better than adults. I wanted to show them that fundamental rights are not dry paragraphs but a story about how we should treat each other.) — Ferdinand von Schirach The success of this attempt to bring complex legal concepts closer to children's imagination will now be assessed by readers and literary critics.
Mentioned People
- Ferdinand von Schirach — German writer and lawyer, author of the book "Alexander".
- Donald Trump — Former US president whose figure is alluded to in the book.