Choosing the Bride

THE BOOK THAT PREDICTED E-READERS Ernst Theodor Amadeus Hoffmann (1776-1822) is known to the world primarily as the author of The Nutcracker. It is less known that E. T. A. Hoffmann is also a pioneer of magic realism, whose works influenced generations of speculative fiction authors. E. T. A. Hoffmann’s tales heralded major discoveries of the modern days, and are considered among the major influences in literature and culture. “Choosing the Bride”, a novella written at the break of the 19th century, predicted the existence of e-reader – a small volume one can always carry in a pocket, which could turn into any book you want. Like other discoveries foretold by speculative fiction authors, people dreamed of making this one a reality for a long time, until it finally found its way into ordinary households and has become an essential part of our lives. Step into the mythical world of Hoffmann’s old Berlin, and experience the enchantment of his magical tale.