Bernhard Schlink's novel "The Reader" is a representative work of late 20th century German fiction. This essay will explore the world within the novel, discover the hidden connotations in the story. Furthermore, through interpretation of the relationship (sexual initiation, introduction of culture) between the protagonists Micha and Hannah,this paper will explore the themes of communication and reunification in relationships influenced by sexual desire,as well as the importance of literacy in understanding history to discover the crime of individuals, to achieve personal reflection and self-redemption