Set in Nazi Germany during World War II, the novel follows the story of a young girl who finds solace in stealing books and sharing them with others. In the midst of the horrors of war, she forms a bond with a Jewish man her foster parents are hiding in their basement. The story is narrated by Death, offering a unique perspective on the atrocities and small acts of kindness during this period. The girl's love for books becomes a metaphor for resistance against the oppressive regime.

"The Reader" is a poignant narrative centered around a young German boy's complex relationship with an older woman, who later turns out to be a former Auschwitz guard. Their relationship begins with her teaching him to read, but takes a drastic turn when she disappears, only to reemerge on trial for war crimes. The novel explores themes of guilt, shame, and redemption, as the boy, now a law student, grapples with his feelings for a woman he once loved, but whose past actions he cannot reconcile with.

Set in apartheid-era South Africa, "A Dry White Season" follows the story of Ben Du Toit, a white schoolteacher who becomes involved in the fight against the system after his gardener's son is brutally beaten by the police. As he delves deeper into his quest for justice, he becomes increasingly isolated from his community and his family, and ultimately pays the highest price for his convictions. The novel is a powerful exploration of the devastating effects of racial injustice and the courage it takes to stand against it.

"When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit" is a poignant and autobiographical novel that follows the life of a young Jewish girl named Anna and her family as they flee Germany in the 1930s to escape the rise of the Nazi regime. Through Anna's eyes, the book explores the challenges and hardships faced by refugees, as well as the loss of identity and sense of belonging. It is a touching story of resilience, courage, and the power of family bonds in the face of adversity.

"Die Swerdjare Van Poppie Nongena" is a powerful and poignant novel that tells the story of Poppie, a black South African woman, during the apartheid era. Set in the 1960s, Poppie faces immense challenges as she navigates the oppressive system that separates her from her family and forces her to endure constant discrimination and hardship. Through Poppie's experiences, the book explores themes of resilience, love, and the human spirit's ability to triumph in the face of adversity.

"This Life" is a reflective narrative that delves into the memories and experiences of an elderly South African woman as she nears the end of her life. Set against the backdrop of the 19th-century Boer society, the story unfolds through her introspective journal entries and letters, revealing the intimate details of her personal journey, her relationships, and the quiet struggles she endures. The novel poignantly explores themes of isolation, the passage of time, and the search for meaning, offering a contemplative look at the universal human condition through the lens of a solitary life lived amidst the vast landscapes of South Africa.

The book is a rich tapestry of historical fiction and magical realism, weaving together the lives of a talking fish, a series of women cooks, and the men in their lives over several centuries. It explores themes of feminism, power, and the evolution of culinary arts, with the titular flounder serving as a guide and witness to the unfolding human drama. The narrative spans from the Stone Age to the modern era, reflecting on the changing roles and relationships between men and women, as well as the impact of these dynamics on culture and society. The novel is a blend of myth, satire, and allegory, presenting a unique perspective on the history of humanity through the lens of food and gender politics.