This new, greatly expanded version of the book, while omitting nothing found in the earlier edition, shifts the emphasis of earlier editions on Dietrich Bonhoeffer's theological reflections to the private sphere of his life.
Bonhoeffer's letters now appear in far greater detail, and show his daily concerns and the enormous warmth and humanity of the young German pastor who was executed by the Nazis in 1945 for his part in the "officers' plot." References to Bonhoeffer's fiancée and their plans for marriage, omitted in earlier editions, are now included as is her recent article containing excerpts from his personal letters. Letters from Bonhoeffer's parents, brothers, sisters, and other relatives have been added.
The book also contains hitherto inaccessible letters and legal papers referring to Bonhoeffer's trial, a reminiscence by Karl-Friedrich Bonhoeffer in the time he spent in prison by members of his family, and a new introduction by Dietrich Bonhoeffer's close friend Eberhard Bethge. These and other pieces—when combined with the historical and theological passages—give aspects of Bonhoeffer's experience a new setting in the context of the war years.
Did you find this review helpful?