debut novel
Alice Heppenheimer was a woman ahead of her time, pursuing her art and ignoring the early signs of trouble for Jews in Nazi Germany. But Alice could not anticipate a Germany where simply being Jewish became an existential threat. And she soon faced the horrifying realization that she may have waited too long to leave.
Stumbling Stones is based on the true story of Alice Heppenheimer. While the novel is about events that happened more than eighty years ago, the novel is timely, since anti-Semitism is on the rise and the rhetoric of the Nazi era has present day echoes. Stumbling Stones asks two fundamental questions that could be faced by anyone, anytime and anywhere – when should I leave and am I willing to leave behind everything I have worked so hard for?
the hawthorne prize
Stumbling Stones was named a Finalist for the Hawthorne Prize for Fiction.
Readers' favorite international book awards
Stumbling Stones was named a Finalist in the Fiction - Womens category
praise for stumbling stones
"Extremely readable with close attention paid to both wider historical and intimate family details, Suchman’s tale serves as a monument in words." -- Kirkus Reviews
"Alice's indomitable spirit and resilience are vividly depicted as she bravely confronts prejudice, injustice, and inhumane conditions during a brutal and unforgiving time in history. An inspiring, haunting story of love, courage, and the will to survive." -- Historical Novels Review
"Suchman breathes vivid life into Alice's story, making her a memorable - and inspiring - character." -- Booklife by Publishers Weekly
"Author Bonnie Suchman has crafted an immersive and atmospheric work that offers a poignant journey through a tumultuous and dark period in human history... Stumbling Stones is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that I would not hesitate to recommend." Rated 5 Stars. Review by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite.
"Stumbling Stones is a must-read! This page-turner is highly engaging with well-crafted dialogue that brings the story and the well-developed characters to life." Rated 5 Stars. Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite.
"This book is a must-read, and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading emotionally engaging stories about the Holocaust." Rated 5 Stars. Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite.
Guest posts from a recent blog tour
Read an except from Stumbling Stones, learn about the origins of the book's title, discover the challenges faced by Jews in leaving Nazi Germany, and read an author interview.
Alice heppenheimer and family on vacation at the north sea, 1923
Top left to right: Selma, Ludwig, Alice (holding the umbrella), Johanna, Benno, and Margot. Bottom left to right: Mellie and Ernst.
