Manuel Bittorf, aka Betterov, Publishes Debut Novel 'Goldener Retriever'

Musician Manuel Bittorf, who performs as Betterov and has filled concert halls for years, has released his first novel, "Goldener Retriever." The book follows Max and Chau, who move from the East German provinces to the affluent Berlin district of Grunewald, where an encounter with a sought-after dog triggers a consequential escalation. In an interview with Der Freitag, the 32-year-old discussed feeling lost in Berlin, politics in literature, and whether films or books have greater impact. Asked why he opened the novel with Max regaining consciousness amid flashing blue lights and police after an accident, Bittorf explained he wanted to begin with catastrophe. He also offered a clear explanation for the outcome of the Berlin election, saying it is plainly evident why many voters chose a particular party. The conversation touches on money, class, and Berlin as central themes of the book.