"Anton Reiser" is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the life of a young man growing up in a strict, religious family in Germany during the 18th century. The protagonist struggles with his religious upbringing and societal expectations, while trying to pursue his passion for literature and philosophy. The novel delves into the protagonist's psychological struggles, his quest for self-identity, and his attempts to reconcile his personal desires with the demands of his environment.

"Patterns of Childhood" is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores a woman's struggle to reconcile her past as a member of the Hitler Youth in Nazi Germany with her present as a writer in East Germany. The protagonist uses her memories, dreams, and conversations with her brother to confront her guilt and shame over her involvement in the Nazi regime. The narrative shifts between past and present, creating a complex and layered exploration of guilt, memory, and the process of coming to terms with a traumatic past.