The Dinner

The Dinner (2009) is a novel by Dutch author Herman Koch. In 2012, Sam Garrett translated it into English. The novel has been adapted into a film multiple times. It tells the story of a dinner at a restaurant, where the guests discuss a serious matter involving their children. Paul Lohman narrates the story, though his version of events may not be reliable.

Plot Summary

Paul Lohman, a former history teacher and the narrator of the novel, prepares to leave for a restaurant with his wife Claire. At the exclusive restaurant, they will meet Serge (Paul’s brother) and Babette (Serge’s wife) in order to have an important conversation about a family matter. Serge is currently the favorite candidate for the next prime minister of the Netherlands. Paul has been dreading the dinner. Claire and Paul talk about their 15-year-old son Michel. Claire thinks Michel has been acting strangely. Paul knows why but does not say. Before leaving for the dinner, Paul entered Michel’s room and looked through his son’s phone, viewing a video which confirmed his worst fears.

Claire and Paul arrive at the restaurant before Serge and Babette. Once seated, they’re offered a drink by the floor manager, a man Paul finds to be very annoying.