Life Goes On

Life Goes On follows a Jewish family in Germany during the economic crisis of the 1920s and early 1930s. The protagonist, Herr Seldersen, runs a small store and struggles to keep his business alive as inflation and unemployment grip the nation. The narrative tracks the daily routines and mounting pressures on the Seldersen family as they navigate increasingly difficult financial circumstances. Through their experiences, the broader social and economic upheaval of Weimar Germany comes into focus. This semi-autobiographical novel depicts the gradual erosion of stability and security in pre-Nazi Germany, written by Keilson while the events were still unfolding around him. The story captures a pivotal moment when personal hardship began intersecting with larger historical forces. The book stands as both a family portrait and a clear-eyed examination of how economic desperation can transform a society. Through its restrained style, the novel reveals connections between private struggles and public catastrophe.

Readers note the book's intimate depiction of a Jewish family's struggles in pre-Nazi Germany, with many highlighting Keilson's autobiographical elements and attention to economic details. Several reviews mention the "slow burn" pacing and documentary-like style. Readers appreciate: - The psychological depth of family relationships - Historical context from a unique perspective - Clear, understated prose style Common criticisms: - Slow pace, especially in middle sections - Abrupt ending - Some find the economic focus tedious Average ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (236 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (18 ratings) Notable reader comments: "Captures the quiet desperation of a family trying to maintain dignity" - Goodreads reviewer "Too much focus on business transactions and not enough character development" - Amazon reviewer "The mounting tension mirrors history itself" - LibraryThing review Several readers recommend pairing with Keilson's "Death of the Adversary" for fuller context.

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🔸 Life Goes On was Keilson's first novel, written when he was only 23 years old. The book was later banned by the Nazis in 1934 due to Keilson's Jewish heritage. 🔸 The novel draws heavily from Keilson's own experiences growing up in Weimar Germany, as his family's textile business struggled during the economic crisis of the 1920s. 🔸 Hans Keilson lived to be 101 years old (1909-2011) and worked as a psychiatrist specializing in treating children traumatized by war, while also maintaining his literary career. 🔸 The book remained untranslated into English for over 70 years, finally reaching English-speaking audiences in 2012 through a translation by Damion Searls. 🔸 Beyond his writing, Keilson joined the Dutch Resistance during WWII and helped save Jewish children by finding them safe houses and providing psychological support - experiences that later influenced his medical career and writings.