Stones on a Grave

Reviews

"Secrets can hide painful truths, as a young woman learns in this novel...The story offers an unusual glimpse into a Germany just one generation past the Holocaust and only beginning to deal with its repercussions. Part of the interconnected Secrets series, the novel is a quick, easy read about a little-known period." "Kacer’s comparison of healthy and unhealthy relationships may resonate with some readers, as will her themes of survival." "A compelling storyline." "A moving story with a likeable protagonist." "A deeply moving story about the innate human longing to know where one comes from and about the power of love and forgiveness to overcome any darkness. The plot flows smoothly, and characters are well developed, given the brevity of the novel. This title would make a beneficial addition to a high school curriculum as a supplementary resource to teachings about World War II. Highly Recommended." "The time period covered is not often explored in young adult fiction with Germany as the setting, and characters who are from the generation directly following the Holocaust have their own stories to tell. A sweet, supporting cast bolsters Sara’s difficult journey in this novel that will tie into the stories of the six other older girls at the orphanage." "By introducing a protagonist with no perceived connection to Judaism, Kacer skillfully develops the reach and complexity of the Holocaust while offering the reader plausible situations which examine questions that are difficult to ask. Kacer’s innate sense of balance and goodness inform her story in a way that allows the reader enough room to either consider or reconsider attitudes and opinions, or perhaps discover a whole new dimension of experience." "The depiction of Jewish life in Germany after World War II, an uncommon setting, makes this a worthwhile addition to collection serving teen readers...Kacer does a good job at showing the shame and embarrassment of some Germans, and she skillfully describes some of the more horrific aspects of the Holocaust in an age appropriate way. Sara is a likeable character and readers will be satisfied with her story." Expand reviews