Berlin Syndrome

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Book Club Notes

Berlin Syndrome Mel anie Joosten

questions to consider 1.

What is the significance of the book’s setting? Are there any links to be drawn between East Germany’s history and the novel’s central relationship?

2. Do you see Clare as an inherently passive person, or is she forced into this role because of her situation? Does she — and should she — feel responsible for what happens? What would you have done in Clare’s position? 3. How long might Clare have stayed in Berlin if Andi had not locked the door? 4. If you had not found out until the book’s end that the door was locked, how do you think you would have interpreted Clare and Andi’s relationship? Book Details Format: Paperback ISBN: 9781921844140 RRP: $29.95

5. Over time, Clare forms a strong bond with Andi. Why do you think this happens? 6. What elements lead to Stockholm Syndrome (when the prisoner feels empathy, and perhaps love, for their captor)? What other instances of it are you aware of? 7. In some ways Andi exists solely for Clare, and Clare for Andi. Is this what love is all about? 8. Do you think Andi knows what he does to Clare is wrong, or has he convinced himself of its necessity? Did you ever feel sorry for him? Could any of his actions be justified?

Author’s Biography Born in 1981, Melanie Joosten lives and works in Melbourne. She has an Honours degree in Creative Arts and a Master of Arts (Editing) from the University of Melbourne. Berlin Syndrome is her first novel.

9. Why do you think Ingrid left her husband and son, and why has she come back? How will Andi react to his mother’s reappearance?

Book Club Notes

Berlin Syndrome Mel anie Joosten

Reviews

‘This gripping psycho-thriller has put the talented Melbourne writer on our radar big time.’ — Grazia

10. What will Clare do after she leaves the apartment? Who will she tell about the ordeal?

‘Elegantly written, especially difficult given the subject matter.’ — Sunday Age ‘In language that’s hypnotic and sparse, Joosten’s remarkable first novel demands to be guzzled in one sitting.’ — Courier Mail ‘Capture[s] the psychodynamics of a generation that is just emerging into its own on the page. I look forward to seeing what she does next.’ — Weekend Australian ‘Joosten excavates the psychology of captivity — its fear, smells, delusions and helplessness — in relentless detail and with considerable skill.’ — FIONA MCGREGOR ‘A courageous and exciting debut … Berlin Syndrome is an intelligent novel, and Joosten is masterful in her descriptions of the loneliness that can be found both in a foreign city full of strangers and in an apartment shared by two people.’ — ELOISE KEATING, Bookseller & Publisher

Scribe Publications 18–20 Edward Street Brunswick Vic 3056   T:  (03)  9388  8780 F:  (03)  9388  8787

AUSTRALIAN SMALL PUBLISHER OF THE YEAR 2011, 2010, 2008, 2006