author
Theodor Zenner
1890–1948
A Luxembourg priest and storyteller, he wrote warmly for children and young readers, blending faith, local history, and everyday life. His books range from devotional works to animal tales and historical stories shaped by a strong sense of place.
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, he came from a farming family and studied at the gymnasium in Diekirch before entering the seminary in Luxembourg. After his ordination in 1914, he served as a vicar in the Saint Joseph parish in Esch-sur-Alzette, later became parish priest in Folscheid in 1926, and dean in Ospern in 1935.
He is best known for his many German-language books for children and young people. His writing often has a moral and devotional tone, but it also draws on homeland, animals, biblical subjects, history, and the Sûre valley where he spent his early years. Among his works are Was der schwarze Hans erlebte (1921), Der Liebling des Patriarchen (1928), Die Fahrt ohne Gott (1934), and Biblische Bilder (1947).
Alongside his fiction, he also wrote prayer and devotional books, including Mein Jesus und ich! and works for young pilgrims and children. He died in Ospern on April 26, 1948, leaving behind a body of writing that reflects both his pastoral life and his wish to speak to younger readers in a clear, accessible way.