author
Theodor Zenner
1890–1948
A Luxembourg priest who turned his love of faith, history, and the natural world into a large body of children’s and devotional books. His stories were especially known for their moral tone and their close ties to Luxembourgish places and traditions.
1 Audiobook
Was der schwarze Hans erlebte: Kindererzählung aus der Heimat
by Theodor Zenner
About the author
Born in Gilsdorf, Luxembourg, on February 22, 1890, Theodor Zenner came from a farming family and later trained for the priesthood. He was ordained in 1914 and served in parishes including Esch-sur-Alzette before becoming pastor in Folschette and later dean in Ospern.
Zenner became best known for his many German-language books for children and young readers. Reference works from Luxembourg describe his writing as moral and didactic, often centered on homeland, animals, biblical and historical subjects, and the Sûre Valley, where he spent part of his youth.
He also wrote prayer and devotional books, including works for children and pilgrims. Zenner died in Ospern on April 26, 1948, leaving behind a substantial body of religious and children’s literature tied closely to Luxembourg’s culture and Catholic life.