Number the Stars

Bibliography

Lowry, Lois. 1989. NUMBER THE STARS. New York: Bantam Doubleday Dell. ISBN 0440403278.

Plot Summary

This story is told through the eyes Annemarie Johansen, a young girl living in Copenhagen, Denmark during WWII. This brave young girl and her family are able to face the oppression of the Nazi forces in their town, and come to the aid of their close friends and neighbors, the Rosen family. This brave young girl is able to lead her friend to safety, by helping her Mother, Uncle, and family friend, as they work with the Danish Resistance to carry Jewish families across the sea to Sweden, where freedom awaits.

Critical Analysis

Lois Lowry has created an engaging cast of characters in this work of Historical fiction. While it is full of historical facts and information, it is presented in a style that is readable, and easy to comprehend. The reader is able to sense the fear and concern within the residents of Copenhagen, as Annemarie, Ellen, and Kirsti are confronted on a street corner by Nazi officers, and as their home in invaded on a search for the missing Rosen family. The setting is well described, and it is easy to visualize the streets of Denmark as it was, and had once been. It is often pointed out that the Danes are to help each other, and to do what’s right, even in the face of danger and adversity. The historical information presented by Lowry is factual, and based upon her own research, as well as the stories she had been told by a close friend who lived through this time in Denmark. The strength and bravery of this cast of characters, and the Danish resistance as a whole is tremendous, and touching. This story provides great opportunity for the discussion and exploration of themes such as bravery, freedom, and human decency.

Review Excerpt(s)

1990 Newberry Award winner
Booklist- “Lowry tells her story well, fashioning a tense climax…”
School Library Journal- “[a story of] Denmark and the Danish people, whose Resistance was so effective in saving their Jews.”

Connections

*This book should prompt student interest and discussion of the events of World War II, and the treatment of Jews in Denmark, and across Europe.
* Other Books about children in World War II
Vos, Ida. HIDE AND SEEK. ISBN 0140369082.
Napoli, Donna Jo. STONES IN WATER. ISBN 0141306009.
Deedy, Carmen Agra. The Yellow Star: The Legend of King Christian X of Denmark. ISBN 1561452084.