ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Four New Books Offer Deeper Insights into Our Present Than Daily News

publication · 2026-08-02

The German newspaper der Freitag recommends four new books that provide deeper insights into contemporary issues than daily news coverage. The books cover the self-image of the USA, the inflationary use of the term 'fascism', the transformation of Berlin, and humor in the Ruhr region. One notable recommendation is by Johanna Roth, who offers a well-researched perspective on the USA without sensationalist theses, drawing on her long-term work as a correspondent. The article highlights how these books address big questions: why the USA remains poorly understood despite endless explanations, whether the warning against 'fascism' has become hollow, and how a city like Berlin continually reinvents itself. The recommendations promise more clarity than expected. The article is part of the current issue of der Freitag.

Key facts

  • The article recommends four new books.
  • The books cover the USA's self-image, the term 'fascism', Berlin's transformation, and humor in the Ruhr region.
  • Johanna Roth's book on the USA is highlighted as a lucky find.
  • Roth's book is based on thorough knowledge of appropriated history and long-term work as a correspondent.
  • The article is published in der Freitag.
  • The article suggests the books offer more clarity than daily news.
  • The books address why the USA is poorly understood, the hollowing of 'fascism', and Berlin's reinvention.
  • The article is part of the current issue of der Freitag.

Entities

Artists

  • Johanna Roth

Institutions

  • der Freitag

Locations

  • USA
  • Berlin
  • Ruhr region

Sources