New releases: New books for a summer on the water – three reading recommendations

These are tales of journeys, travellers and the places they visit, mostly on the water. These new books are perfect for long days in port, relaxing evenings on a sailing trip and quiet moments in the cockpit whilst underway. This time, two of the stories focus on perhaps the greatest hero of antiquity and a dark hour in recent history.

1. Odysseus

What was the real story behind perhaps the most famous hero of antiquity? Raimund Schulz examines the myths and facts in the context of the ancient world. Klett-Cotta: 320 pages, hardback, 25 euros. ISBN: 978-3-608-98923-6. klett-cotta.de

2. The Odyssey

This modern retelling in the form of a graphic novel sheds new light on one of the greatest maritime adventures in literary history, its heroes, gods and monsters. Retold by Nicolás Schuff and illustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson. Insel: 191 pages, hardback, €18. ISBN: 978-3-458-64597-9. suhrkamp.de

3. The final days of the dictatorship

In the spring of 1945, Flensburg was the last seat of government of the ‘Third Reich’ under Grand Admiral Dönitz. Immediately after the war ended, many lives intersected on the fjord as the city moved towards liberation. Whilst some tried to disappear into the shadows, others stepped into the limelight. A gripping account by Svenja Falk. Klett-Cotta: 256 pages, hardback, €21.99. ISBN: 978-3-608-12538-2. klett-cotta.de