Number the Stars by Lois Lowry tells the story of Annemarie Johansen, a young girl living in Denmark during World War II. As the Nazis occupy her country, Annemarie must navigate the dangers of war while protecting her Jewish friend, Ellen Rosen. The novel explores themes of bravery, friendship, and the moral choices faced during times of oppression. Set against the backdrop of historical events, the story highlights the courage of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. This book is suitable for middle-grade readers and those interested in historical fiction.

Key Points

  • Follows Annemarie Johansen as she helps her Jewish friend Ellen during the Nazi occupation of Denmark.
  • Explores themes of bravery, friendship, and moral choices in wartime.
  • Set in Copenhagen during World War II, highlighting real historical events.
  • Features strong character development and emotional depth, suitable for middle-grade readers.
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158 pages
History
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Number the Stars
Lois Lowry
Table of Contents
Title Page
Table of Contents
...
Copyright
Dedication
Contents
Introduction
1. Why Are You Running?
2. Who Is the Man Who Rides Past?
3. Where Is Mrs. Hirsch?
4. It Will Be a Long Night
5. Who Is the Dark-Haired One?
6. Is the Weather Good for Fishing?
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End of Document
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FAQs

What is the main conflict in Number the Stars?
The main conflict in Number the Stars revolves around the Nazi occupation of Denmark and the threat it poses to the Jewish population. Annemarie Johansen, the protagonist, must protect her best friend Ellen Rosen from being captured by the Nazis. This personal conflict is set against the broader backdrop of war, where Annemarie and her family face moral dilemmas and dangers as they assist in hiding Ellen and other Jewish families.

How does Annemarie demonstrate bravery in the story?
Annemarie demonstrates bravery throughout Number the Stars by making difficult choices to protect her friend Ellen. She risks her own safety by lying to soldiers and helping Ellen hide from the Nazis. Annemarie's courage is particularly evident when she confronts danger head-on, such as when she runs through the woods to deliver a crucial message and supplies to her uncle, knowing that her actions could have serious consequences.

What role does King Christian X play in the story?
King Christian X serves as a symbol of Danish pride and resistance against the Nazis in Number the Stars. His actions, such as riding through Copenhagen unguarded, inspire the Danish people to stand against oppression. The king's presence in the story highlights the theme of national identity and the collective courage of the Danish citizens who risked their lives to protect their Jewish neighbors during the occupation.

What is the significance of the handkerchief in the story?
The handkerchief in Number the Stars is significant as it represents a clever solution to protect Jewish lives from Nazi detection. It contains a special powder that confuses the dogs trained to sniff out hidden passengers on fishing boats. This handkerchief symbolizes the resourcefulness and bravery of the Danish Resistance, as well as the lengths to which people went to save their friends and neighbors during the Holocaust.

How does the story end for Annemarie and Ellen?
At the end of Number the Stars, Annemarie and Ellen are separated as Ellen and her family escape to Sweden for safety. Annemarie's bravery and quick thinking have helped protect Ellen from the Nazis, but the emotional toll of their separation is profound. The story concludes with a sense of hope for the future, as Annemarie holds onto the belief that she will see Ellen again, reflecting the resilience of friendship even in the darkest times.