Jewish women born to immigrant parents in the Bronx in 1944 don’t get romantically involved with men who are cops, have German accents and look like Hitler youth leaders. But reporter Sarah Stern is drawn to Karl Schmidt and intrigued by his tangled family history. The new novel Stumbling Stone chronicles their journey across two continents and the discovery of sinister secrets they never could have imagined.
This compelling work of fiction was inspired by the remarkable histories of the authors—BAIPA member Julie Freestone and Rudi Raab. Freestone is a former Bay area reporter and her life partner Raab is a retired Berkeley police officer whose father was a high-ranking Nazi. A recent article about the authors appeared in the J. (the Jewish Weekly of Northern California).
Besides the novel, which is available at Book Passage, other independent bookstores and through the usual online outlets, Freestone and Raab recently launched a website, stumbling-stone.com to share photos, memories and stories about their families and post-war Europe. They will appear at Book Passage in Corte Madera on August 30 at 7 p.m. to talk about Stumbling Stone.
Journalist/author Peter Y. Sussman says, “Their story is framed as a “stumbling stone,” the literary equivalent of a historical plaque common in Europe. Using fiction to bridge gaps in historical documentation, this fascinating perspective on the holocaust is as unique and unlikely as its authors’ relationship.”
The BAIPA Blog is managed, edited, posted and often written by Linda Jay and Lily O’Brien. Submissions are welcome from current members.
Author
One of my favorite things about BAIPA is its culture of generosity, the willingness — even eagerness — to share what we have each learned in the process of bringing stories to life. We provide educational programs, networking, marketing opportunities, encouragement, and information on industry vendors and services. And lots of one-on-one advice and mentoring.
We welcome all who have an interest in making connections within the world of independent publishing and learning more about how to publish and sell their work successfully. Together we are raising the standard of independent publishing and helping our members thrive.
Do join us!
—Becky Parker Geist, BAIPA Board of Directors, President
Quick Resources
Current BAIPA members do not need to register for our monthly meetings. The night before the meetings, they will receive the Zoom info. For workshop registration, currently, members get in free for all workshops and will receive the Zoom info the night before the meetings, as well as in the confirmation email.