Reading and conversation with Johannes Herwig "Until the Stars Tremble"

On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, three classes from the 8th and 9th grades will have an impressive literary encounter: Leipzig author Johannes Herwig will be a guest at the SLB and will present his youth novel "Until the Stars Tremble." The novel takes the young readers to Leipzig in the year 1936. At the center of the story is 16-year-old Harro, who refuses to conform and becomes part of opposition youth groups. Amid school stress, conflicts at home, friendship, first love, and political resistance, Johannes Herwig tells a gripping story about growing up in a dictatorship. The novel is based on the "Leipzig Packs" – youth groups that consciously opposed the Nazi regime. Johannes Herwig, born and raised in Leipzig-Connewitz, studied sociology and psychology and has worked in the cultural sector for many years. His debut novel "Until the Stars Tremble" was nominated for the German Youth Literature Prize, awarded the Paul Maar Prize, and he received the Anna Seghers Prize in 2024. In the 90-minute reading followed by a discussion, the author will read from his novel, talk about historical backgrounds, writing, and the importance of stance and civil courage – and engage with the young people on questions of participation, conformity, or resistance. Registration via email at: wuestenhagen@bibliothek.potsdam.de