I loved them all, but if forced to choose a favorite it would be "Journey to the East." It perfectly encapsulates all the major themes in a magical story that rings so true to life in its metaphorical way. To wander away, to be lost, then to find oneself again, to recover the mystery and magic of life ...

My favorite hesse novel is Siddhartha. I read the Hilda Rosnes's English translation of the novel in 1976. Since than I have read the novel more than 30 times. It was my companion for more than a quarter of a century in my travels, my life. Each new reading of Siddartha took me to new experiences, meaning. It was like meditating. I tried to learn German to read Siddhartha in German. I have translated the book into Malaylam an Indian language in 1985. For more than five years I read the translation to friends without giving it for publication. In 1990 it was published and presently it has gone through five printruns. Siddhartha continues to be my favorite book and best friend. Also I consider Hilda Rosner's as the best translation of Siddhartha in any lanuage.

Siddhartha... it's like a holly rain for my soul and... mind. It's very deeper in my soul.

Edited by dakus on 01/25/03 08:21 PM.

My favorite Hesse novel to date is Siddartha. Rosshalde is a close second, both are amazing. Actually all of his novels are.

A short, simple work which includes his own watercolor paintings, WANDERINGS.

my favourite "novel", if we can say that, is "El juego de los abalorios", "Das Glasperlenspiel".

I read Demian as a thirteen year old and it basically changed my viewpoint on things in life and I have re-read it many times ever since;