Award: Number the Stars

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Award: Newbery Medal Winner

Evaluation of the book:

Even though we as readers of Number the Stars and knowers of World War II history know about the Jewish holocaust and Nazi terror, protagonist Annemarie does not. We might be able to guess what will happen or what Annemarie will discover, but Lowry does a good job using understatement to ensure that we are discovering these things all over again through Annemarie’s eyes.

The plot of Number the Stars is a simple World War II narrative, but through it the reader learns a valuable history lesson. Through Annemarie’s story and simple act of courage, the readers of this book learns how the Danish people helped almost all of the Danish Jews escape across the sea to Sweden.

Annemarie’s character is admirable: she is observant, obedient, brave, and a good friend. Even though she is only ten years old, she is an example to her readers of how even the most ordinary of people might be called to perform an extraordinary action. Annemarie, a simple girl, saved her friend by standing up to the soldiers; Denmark, a country, saved its population of Jews by standing up to the Nazis.

Response:

How did you learn, and how much were your views and opinions challenged or changed by this text, if at all?

I learned a lot about Denmark’s actions during World War II. Even though the story was told from the point of view of ten-year-old Annemarie, who knew nothing about the greater repercussions of Nazi terror, my own knowledge of WWII history helped me read between the lines to see just how amazing it was that Danish Jews were able to flee to Sweden with the help of their countrymen.

How well does it address things that you, personally, care about and consider important to the world?

Number the Stars is a beautiful example of the importance of true friendship. Although we don’t have as many opportunities to truly stand up for our friends in the same way that Annemarie stood up for Ellen, we must always remember that a true friendship comes with sacrifice. We must focus a little less on “self care” and remember that our loved ones need some care and attention too.

What is your overall reaction to the text?

This book was beautiful, enlightening, and enjoyable to read. I learned a lot about history and I felt like I became part of the Johansen family and the Danish people. This book helped remind me that sometimes even the smallest moments of bravery can have enormous results.

Conclusion:
By discovering Nazi terror and the Jewish plight through the eyes of Annemarie and her moment of courage, Number the Stars is both a history lesson and a lesson in virtue mixed into one beautiful story. This book should be read by any elementary school class studying World War II history, any child interested in history, and any child who needs help being brave.

APA Style Reference:

Lowry, L. (1989). Number the stars. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.