The Reader book cover

Cover via Open Library

Movie · 2008

Is The Reader based on a book?

Quick answer

Yes. The Reader is based on the book The Reader by Bernhard Schlink (1995).

The movie was released in 2008.

The book behind The Reader

The Reader cover

The Reader

by Bernhard Schlink · first published 1995 · Holocaust literature, historical fiction

Common questions

Is The Reader based on a book?

Yes. The Reader is based on the book The Reader by Bernhard Schlink (1995).

Who wrote the book The Reader is based on?

The Reader was written by Bernhard Schlink and first published in 1995.

Should I read the book before watching?

If you like knowing the full story and characters first, read The Reader before you watch. Adaptations often change or cut plotlines, so the book is a different experience even if you've seen the movie.

Facts from Wikidata (CC0). See also Wikipedia.