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Stones from the River

525 pages, 1995

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Description
From the author of Floating in My Mother’s Palm and Children and Fire, a magnificent story about ordinary people living in extraordinary times—a book that introduced the work of an exceptional writer to readers everywhere. Trudi Montag is a dwarf—short, unpopular, different, the voice of anyone who has ever tried to fit in. Eventually, she learns that being different is a secret that all humans share—from her mother who flees into madness, to her friend Georg whose parents pretend he’s a girl, to the Jews Trudi harbors in her cellar. Ursula Hegi brings us a timeless story about small-town life and family ties, weaving together a profound tapestry of emotional power and humanity—and writing at its most daring and magnificent.
The Power of Resilience

In Stones from the River, Ursula Hegi shows us the power of resilience through the character of Trudi Montag. Despite her physical differences and the challenges she faces, Trudi's spirit remains unbroken. This book encourages us to find strength in our own unique qualities and to overcome adversity.

The Importance of Community

Hegi's book explores the importance of community in shaping our lives. Trudi's life is deeply intertwined with the people of her town, and their stories become her own. This book reminds us to appreciate the communities we are part of and to understand their influence on our lives.

Understanding History

Stones from the River gives us a unique perspective on World War II, as seen through the eyes of a small German town. Hegi encourages us to research and understand history, not just from the big events, but also from the everyday lives of ordinary people.

The Complexity of Human Nature

Ursula Hegi's characters are complex and flawed, just like real people. She invites us to look into their lives, understand their motivations, and see the world from their perspective. This book encourages us to explore the complexity of human nature and to be more empathetic.

The Role of Storytelling

In the book, Trudi becomes the town's unofficial historian, collecting stories from her community. Hegi shows us the power of storytelling in preserving history, understanding others, and finding our place in the world. This book inspires us to dig into our own stories and those of the people around us.

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