Is Bernhard Schlink A-List?
No — Bernhard Schlink is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 1995
"The Reader" Publication
Lost A-list status in 2000
Dropped to B tier — "The Reader" Film Adaptation
Ranking Timeline
Law Professor Career
Begins his career as a professor of law at the University of Bonn. Establishes himself in academia.
Fiction Writing Begins
Begins writing fiction, publishing several crime novels before achieving international fame. Explores his creative side while maintaining his legal career.
"The Reader" Publication
Publishes "The Reader", achieving international fame and critical acclaim. Explores themes of guilt, responsibility, and German history.
"The Reader" Film Adaptation
The film adaptation of "The Reader" further boosts his recognition and royalties. This catapults Schlink to literary stardom, earning him numerous awards.
"Homecoming" Novel
Publishes "Homecoming", continuing to explore themes of history, memory, and moral responsibility. Remains a prominent figure in German literature.
Park Kyong-ni Prize
Wins the Park Kyong-ni Prize for his literary contributions. Celebrated for his thought-provoking and emotionally resonant works.
Renowned German Novelist
Bernhard Schlink remains a renowned German lawyer, academic, and novelist, best known for "The Reader". Continues to write and contribute to literature.
Last updated: February 25, 2026