Human DNA isn't the only double helix; there are also the EU's interlocking legal systems. Ulrich Haltern gets to the bottom of this in "Entangled States". He provides important insights in challenging times

Germany, the country whose inhabitants would love to be world champions in everything, holds a sad record: that of the highest number of migrants killed in the European Union. Asal Dardan goes in search of clues in her book "Traumaland"

In "Kritik der großen Geste" (Critique of the grand gesture), sociology professor Armin Nassehi calls for politicians to refrain from making huge demands in times of major crises and opt instead for a policy of small steps

In "The World of Tomorrow: A Sovereign Democratic Europe - and its Enemies", Robert Menasse asks whether nationalism is becoming the gravedigger of the EU and whether European elites are failing

"Worlds of Slavery - A Comparative History" was published in 2021 by Éditions du Seuil in France. It covers the history of slavery from the end of the Bronze Age to the present day. An essential read.

In "Unequally United", sociologist Steffen Mau examines why East Germany remains different

"Only a fool wouldn't buy this book" by Oksana Havryliv is a humorous exploration of name-calling, swearing and cursing, as well as an enlightening journey through different cultures and taboos

In "Realm of Shame. Talking about Sex", Christine Koschmieder explores her own sexuality and recounts the evolution of sexuality in Germany from the 1960s to the present day

"Erasmus - Biography of a Freethinker" by Sandra Langereis is a fascinating book about the life and times of the great humanist- and a balm needed just as much in today's world as in the 1500s.