Adelheid Brunner does not speak. Instead, she writes, draws maps and dreams of collecting one thousand matchboxes. Then she meets Dr Asperger, a man who lets children play all day and who recognises the importance of matchboxes. He invites Adelheid to come and live at the paediatric clinic, where she and other children like herself will live under observation.
But the date is 1938 and the place is Vienna. When the Nazis march into the city, a new world is created, and difficult choices must be made.
We’re proud to present the launch event for the extraordinary new novel by award-winning Stroud writer Alice Jolly. Join us to hear more about the inspirations behind this story of a young girl’s battle for survival in occupied Vienna.
After the event, drinks will be served to celebrate the publication and you are invited to stay and raise a glass.

Date: Saturday 8th November 2025
Time: 7.30pm - 8.30pm
Location: Lansdown Hall, Stroud 

Click here to book your tickets