Book Summary -
In 1943 Denmark, Annemarie and her friend Ellen are in increasing danger from the Nazis. Ellen is a Jew and moves in with Annemarie's family, pretending to be part of them. Soon the time comes when Ellen needs to escape Denmark in order to be kept safe. Annemarie must face her fear in order to deliver an important package to the boat where Ellen is hiding. In this package is a chemical that is the only thing standing between Ellen and the Nazis. Annemarie makes it to the boat in time, and Ellen is taken to safety.
APA Reference -
Lowry, L. (1989). Number the stars. New York: Dell Publishing.
My Impressions -
I love historical fiction, and this one is great for introducing younger students to the many dangerous and hurtful aspects of the European theater of World War II. It is not one that should be read by younger students on their own. It is a great book for parents to discuss with their children. The Holocaust is not something to halfheartedly introduce in a book without an adult to explain on students' levels. It could be quite damaging if it is something that they are pushed into or discover by themselves. This book hits on the harsh aspects, but with no detail that would be inappropriate for the students. It is a sweet and thoughtful book. This is one that was on my mind for a long time after reading.
Professional Review -
Gr 4-8 — The horrors
of the Holocaust and the bravery of the Danish people during World War II are
thoughtfully presented in Lois Lowry's Newbery Award-winning novel (Houghton,
1989). This timeless story of courage, friendship, and
family, based on the actual events of the Danish Resistance to World War II,
should be part of every child's introduction to the Holocaust.
Number the stars. (2007). School Library Journal,
53(3), 64.
Library Uses -
This book would be a great jumping off point for a short research project. The students could either make a posterboard with different heroes of the resistance agains the Germans in European countries, or focus on different ways that they would have helped be resistance fighters, with historical examples to back up these ways.
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