Nelio Biedermann — Lázár - with Marcellus Rolle
Nelio Biedermann presents *Lázár*, his acclaimed debut novel, in conversation with Marcellus Rolle. Inspired by Biedermann’s family history, the gothic, multigenerational saga follows the aristocratic Hungarian Lázár family from the beginning of the 20th century through two world wars, revolutions, secrets, forbidden desires, supernatural disturbances, devastating loss, and moments of enduring love and hope.
The novel begins with the birth of Lajos von Lázár, a strange-looking child whose translucent skin and light-blue eyes set him apart from his family. As the family’s patriarch reacts with shame and other relatives confront fear, suspicion, and visions of catastrophe, the Lázárs’ story unfolds across decades of national upheaval. The event is presented in partnership with the Embassy of Switzerland.
When: Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Showtimes: 7:00pm
Venue: Politics and Prose at 5015 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
Format: In-person event with a livestream option available through the event page
Conversation: Nelio Biedermann with Marcellus Rolle, Head for Communications and Public Policy at the Embassy of Switzerland in the United States
Tickets: Free admission, with first-come, first-served seating
Author: Nelio Biedermann is also the author of *Anton will bleiben*. Born in 2003, he studies German literature and film at the University of Zurich. Originally published in Germany, *Lázár* became an international bestseller, won the 2025 Favourite Book of Independent Booksellers award, and is being translated into more than 25 languages.
Book: *Lázár: A Novel* was translated by Jamie Bulloch and is available in hardcover for $28.00. Its ISBN is 9781668200551, and its listed publication date is April 14, 2026.
Accessibility: Accommodation and accessibility requests may be sent to events@politics-prose.com, ideally at least one week before the event. The organizers will try to accommodate requests made up to the event time.
Run time: Not specified.