Stones in Water

Written by Donna Jo Napoli

Book #1 in the Stones in Water series

Boys face peril in a work camp; a secret could doom them.

3.9 Goodreads · 2,594 ratings

209 pages· 46,911 words· Est. 6.5 hour read· 630L

$7.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Roberto's life shatters when German soldiers raid a theater in his Italian village, capturing him and his friend Samuele. Thrust into a harsh work camp, survival is their only goal. But Samuele harbors a secret that could endanger them both. As they navigate the camp's brutal conditions, their friendship is tested by fear and desperation. Will they manage to protect each other, or will the secret tear them apart? This gripping tale of courage and loyalty unfolds against the backdrop of war, where every decision could mean life or death.

From the publisher

When Roberto sneaks off to see a movie in his Italian village, he has no idea that life as he knows it is over. German soldiers raid the theater, round up the boys in the audience, and pack them onto a train. After a terrifying journey, Roberto and his best friend Samuele find themselves in a brutal work camp, where food is scarce and horror is everywhere. The boys vow to stay together no matter what. But Samuele has a dangerous secret, which, if discovered, could get them both killed. Lovers of historical fiction will be captivated by this tragic, triumphant, and deeply moving novel.