„Weiße Flecken“ from Lene Albrecht

Lene Albrecht’s new novel, “Weiße Flecken” (White Spots), is a fascinating and profound work that delves into the complex themes of flight and migration. The book follows the protagonist Ellen, who travels to Togo on behalf of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees to investigate the causes of migration. This mission brings her into contact with various individuals and fates shaped by Europe’s colonial legacy.

Ellen meets a seamstress and a young man working in an orphanage, encounters that confront her with her own family history and the moral challenges associated with her work. Albrecht masterfully intertwines the personal stories of the characters with broader historical and political contexts, giving the novel impressive depth and complexity.

“White Spots” is characterized by clear and poetic language that allows readers to immerse themselves in the protagonist’s thoughts. The narrative is both introspective and powerfully storytelling, making the reading experience intense. Albrecht’s ability to address complex themes such as guilt, responsibility, and identity makes the book particularly relevant and timely.

The novel challenges readers to reflect on Europe’s role in today’s global migration crisis and the impact of colonial history on contemporary societies. This blend of personal drama and political engagement makes “White Spots” an important literary voice in contemporary German literature.

Overall, “White Spots” is an impressive work that is both emotionally touching and intellectually challenging. It is a must-read for anyone interested in themes of migration, history, and social justice. With this book, Lene Albrecht has made a significant contribution to the literary exploration of one of the most pressing issues of our time.

One of my favorite passages in “White Spots” is the encounter between Ellen and the seamstress in Togo. This scene is particularly impressive because it vividly illustrates the deep wounds and complex relationships stemming from Europe’s colonial past. The seamstress tells her story with such honesty and vulnerability that readers can feel the shame and discomfort that Ellen experiences during this encounter. Albrecht describes this moment with clear and poetic language, deeply moving and thought-provoking for the reader.