Book cover of Stones from the River

Book description

An epic novel charting the course of German history in the first half of the twentieth century follows Trudi Montag, a dwarf who serves as her town's librarian, unofficial historian, and recorder of the secret stories of her people. 20,000 first printing.

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Stones from the River as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Stones from the River imagines the life of Trudi, a girl with dwarfism, during the period of time from the end of World War I through the years of the Third Reich in the fictional town of Burgdorf, Germany.

More than anything else, Trudi, who is raised by a loving, understanding father and basks in the warmth of others in her small town, wishes to grow. As a child and a young woman she spends hours each day in futile attempts to lengthen her body, ultimately coming to the realization that she will always be who she is.

If you love Stones from the River...

Book cover of These Blue Mountains

These Blue Mountains by Sarah Loudin Thomas,

A moving story of love, betrayal, and the enduring power of hope in the face of darkness.

German pianist Hedda Schlagel's world collapsed when her fiancé, Fritz, vanished after being sent to an enemy alien camp in the United States during the Great War. Fifteen years later, in 1932, Hedda…

Want books like Stones from the River?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Stones from the River.

Browse books like Stones from the River

Book cover of The Smoking Mountain: Stories of Post-War Germany
Book cover of Hitler's First War: Adolf Hitler, the Men of the List Regiment, and the First World War
Book cover of Haig's Enemy: Crown Prince Rupprecht and Germany's War on the Western Front

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,367

readers submitted
so far, will you?

📚 If you like Stones from the River, you might also like...

Book cover of The Swordsman of Venice

The Swordsman of Venice by Rob Samborn,

In Renaissance Venice, the deadliest weapon isn’t a blade… it’s a secret.

Angelo Mascari is a master swordsman whose greatest battle isn’t fought for crown or country, but for love. When treachery strikes and the Republic turns against him, Angelo is forced into a desperate flight that leads him across…

Book cover of Price of Vengeance

Price of Vengeance by Kurt D. Springs,

Liam was orphaned at the age of two by a group of giant carnivorous insects called the chitin. Taken in by High Councilor Marcus and his wife, Lidia, Liam was raised with their older son, Randolf in New Olympia, the last remaining city on the planet Etrusci.

As an adult,…

5 book lists we think you will like!