I have met a few people who have dismissed Thomas Mann as a writer after reading “Death in Venice”. In doing so, they commit the literary mistake of their lifetime. Try “Confessions of Felix Krull, Confidence Man” for a light, entertaining read or “Buddenbrooks” for a family saga. If you are up for more of a challenge – and a treat – , read “The Magic Mountain” or “Doctor Faustus” if you are interested in music.

(C) for the photo: Andreas Moser, in Venice in January 2012