cover image Unknown Hitler

Unknown Hitler

Wulf Schwarzwaller. National Press Books, $19.95 (240pp) ISBN 978-0-915765-63-8

German journalist Schwarzwaller sketchily describes how Hitler earned, cadged, stole and spent money throughout his life. He also repeats rumors about der Fuhrer's sex life, including a third-hand account of an s&m encounter between Hitler and an actress in his Reichschancellery apartment. Another matter curiously gone into is Hitler's training in black magic under the tutelage of a wealthy patron named Dietrich Eckart. The author assures us that the pupil ``quite suddenly developed astonishing qualities and talents.'' The book contains at least one claim verified by accompanying evidence: reiterating the familiar argument that Hitler had no talent as an artist, Schwarzwaller presents a few examples. Readers are not required to believe anything here to enjoy the book, which is as hard to put down as a sensationalized tabloid. Photos. (May)