Number the Stars
on Goodreads (598,692)
What’s inside...
The story is about a young Danish girl, Annemarie Johansen, who aids her Jewish best friend, Ellen Rosen, during the Nazi occupation of Denmark in World War II. As German troops begin to 'relocate' all the Jews of Denmark, Annemarie's family conceals Ellen as part of their family. Through the perspective of ten-year-old Annemarie, the novel follows the Danish Resistance efforts in smuggling almost the entire Jewish population of Denmark, nearly seven thousand people, across the sea to Sweden. The heroism of an entire nation highlights the presence of pride and human decency during a time of terror and war. This unforgettable Newbery Medal–winning novel by Lois Lowry showcases the courage and resilience of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
282 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think made Annemarie brave enough to help her friend, even when it was dangerous?
How do you think the people in the story felt when they had to make difficult decisions?
Why is it important to stand up for others, even when you’re scared?
What role did friendship and family play in Annemarie’s journey?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in today's world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, provide your child with some background about World War II and the Holocaust to give context to the story.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about each character’s decisions and discuss the consequences of these choices.
As you read together, pause to ask your child what they think might happen next and why.
After finishing the book, connect the themes to real-life situations by discussing current events that involve themes of bravery and social justice.
Promote empathy by asking your child how they would feel in Annemarie’s shoes and in the shoes of other characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of bravery and courage
Explanation: In 'Number the Stars', the main character, Annemarie, demonstrates bravery when she helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape the Nazi occupation in Denmark.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stand up for their friends and defend what is right, even when they are scared.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and loyalty
Explanation: Throughout the story, Annemarie shows unwavering loyalty to Ellen, risking her own safety to protect her friend.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of being a dependable and trustworthy friend in challenging times.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical context
Explanation: The book provides insights into the history of World War II and the Holocaust, tailored to be accessible for young readers.
Real-World Application: Children can gain a foundational understanding of significant historical events, which can enhance their educational curriculum and foster empathy.
Example Lesson: The power of self-sacrifice for the greater good
Explanation: Characters in the book, including Annemarie's family, make difficult choices to help others, showing selflessness.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to think about how their actions can benefit others, promoting a sense of community and responsibility.
Example Lesson: Courage to challenge injustice
Explanation: The narrative displays how Annemarie and her family challenge the injustices perpetrated by the Nazis by helping the Jewish community.
Real-World Application: It informs children that they too can oppose injustice in their own lives, whether it's bullying in school or unfair treatment in other aspects of life.