Hermann Hesse's Schön ist die Jugend (Youth is Beautiful) collects two of his early novellas, both focused on the bittersweet transition from boyhood to manhood.

The Story

The first story follows a university student returning to his provincial hometown for a visit. He expects comfort but finds he's changed; his old world feels small, and reconnecting with friends and family is awkward. The second story centers on a young man named Kuhn. His family wants him to take a sensible job, but his heart is set on becoming an artist. We watch him struggle between duty and desire, between the security of a known path and the terrifying thrill of following a dream.

Why You Should Read It

What I love about Hesse here is how gentle he is. He doesn't judge his characters. He just observes them with a deep understanding of that universal ache—the longing for the past and the fear of the future, all mixed together. The writing is clear and vivid, pulling you right into the small-town streets and the quiet turmoil of a young person's mind. It's a masterclass in capturing a mood.

Final Verdict

This book is a quiet gem. It's perfect for anyone who enjoys character-driven stories, for readers who remember their own coming-of-age struggles, or for those new to Hesse and wanting to start with something shorter and more accessible than Siddhartha or Steppenwolf. Keep a cup of tea nearby, settle into a comfortable chair, and let Hesse remind you of the beautiful, painful magic of being young.