Lunch & Learn Special: “Alte Wut” – The most important book of the year Sneak Preview with author Caro Matzko
Insights from the book, which is recommended as teaching material for schools even before it is published.
Exclusively before publication: Caro Matzko reads and discusses “Alte Wut” – live on Zoomcall.
Why are so many people angry – and turning to the political fringes?
And why is the social debate so full of anger?
As is so often the case, we find the answer when we take a closer look – and turn our attention to individual people: And you can experience this live and up close and personal in our online session.
Between anorexia and Masuria: Caro Matzko’s father fled East Prussia as a young boy. Eighty years later, his daughter drives the route “backwards” from Munich via Weißenfels, Berlin, Niechorze and Elbląg to Ostróda – formerly Osterode in East Prussia. And discovers social revelations that provide answers to three political questions of our time. Along for the ride: daughter, husband, dog and – the portafilter coffee machine. This is how the book “Alte Wut” came about : as a road movie through archives, landscapes and family stories. Personal and political. Painful – and yet full of lightness and humor. And with personal answers that are so much more than “just” personal.
On October 1, we had the chance to talk to the author – live on Lunch & Learn, hosted by Bert Helbig. Our guest was Udo Hahn, Director of the Evangelische Akademie Tutzing. He said: “All students had to read this book! Among other things, we learned why he had recommended the book to the Federal Agency for Civic Education – and invited pupils from local schools to the premiere.
- Because Caro’s story shows how trauma is passed down through generations – and that rifts in families can heal.
- Because “Alte Wut” is not only heavy, but also light, humorous and full of humanity.
- Because we can all learn to treat each other with more understanding – in families, in teams, in our society.
- Even if it seems impossible at first glance.
“Great woman, great book.” – Jürgen von der Lippe
“We laughed tears – and had a real tear or two in the corner of our eyes. Your writing is really terrific!” – Gerriet Danz
“This book hit me right in the heart. My recommendation of the year.” – Tijen Onaran
Caro Matzko (Author)
Born in Ulm in 1979, studied communication science, political science and sociology. Known from radio and television: Over 800 science programs (including ARTE Xenius), sidekick on 250 BR latenight shows with Hannes Ringlstetter, now on Bayern 2, ARD, ARTE and BR. In addition to her journalistic work, she writes as a guest author for the SZ, gives keynotes and moderates discussions, conferences and events.
Udo Hahn (guest speaker)
Director of the Evangelische Akademie Tutzing since 2011. He says: “The message of this book is just as important for parents as it is for leaders. He has recommended “Alte Wut” to the Federal Agency for Civic Education for funding – because the book shows how a culture of remembrance works and how social healing processes can be initiated.
Bert Helbig (Moderation)
30 years as a radio presenter, media manager, now a communications consultant. He develops strategies for clear and effective messages and shows how communication really reaches people. In Lunch & Learn, he leads through the hour in a precise and lively manner.
Lunch & Learn Special: Sneak Preview “Alte Wut“
Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Duration: 12:00 – 13:00
Reading: Caro Matzko
Talk guest: Udo Hahn
Moderation: Bert Helbig
Host: Karin Burger, Die Agentur für Redner