Judith Hermann's latest book, "Ich möchte zurückgehen in der Zeit" (I Want to Go Back in Time), delves into the haunting legacy of her grandfather's involvement with the SS in Poland. The narrative highlights the struggle of understanding and confronting a family history marked by darkness and unspoken truths. Hermann channels her reflections through the perspective of a mother-daughter relationship, revealing the complexities of literary representation versus personal experiences.

In an emotionally charged dialogue, Hermann's narrator confronts her mother about their family's inheritance—a silver spoon gifted by her grandfather on the daughter's coming of age. Through this object, Hermann probes deeper into the emotional and moral implications of carrying the weight of an ancestor's actions, which remain largely shrouded in mystery. This storytelling hints at larger themes of guilt, memory, and the role of artistic interpretation in processing painful histories.

As Hermann explores her familial background, she invites readers to reflect on the broader societal implications of acknowledging past atrocities and the ways personal narratives can shape our understanding of history. The book is not only a personal inquiry into her family's shadow but also serves as a commentary on the complexities of memory, identity, and the responsibility of narrating one's legacy. This introspective work encourages an honest conversation about the intersections between personal narratives and historical realities, making it a significant addition to contemporary literature on memory and family history.