Number the stars

courageous · suspenseful · moving · historical

What do our readers think of Number the stars? (AI-Generated Summary)

Children find the story gripping and say it makes history feel personal through friendship, bravery and difficult choices. Some children feel that the book introduces the Holocaust gently but does not show the full horror of what happened, so they may want to discuss the history further.

What does the Pageticker team say about Number the stars?

Number the Stars is a tense, compassionate story about friendship, courage and doing the right thing when the odds are dreadful. Lois Lowry keeps the history accessible without making it feel sugar-coated, although adults may wish to talk with younger readers about Nazi persecution, fear and loss. A powerful choice for confident readers aged 10 and up.

Genres

What is Number the stars about?

In German-occupied Denmark in 1943, ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen’s life changes when her best friend, Ellen Rosen, must hide from the Nazis. As danger grows, Annemarie’s family takes great risks to protect Ellen and help Jewish families escape to safety in Sweden. With soldiers searching homes and the Danish Resistance working in secret, Annemarie must find courage she never knew she had. Her bravery, loyalty and quick thinking become vital in a dangerous mission to save those she loves.

About the author

Lois Lowry is a well-known author who has written many books for children and young people. She is famous for stories like 'The Giver' and 'Number the Stars'. Lois loves to imagine new worlds and characters, and her books are enjoyed by readers all around the world. She hopes her stories inspire children to think and dream.

Discussion ideas around Number the stars

True Courage: Annemarie is frightened but still acts bravely; what do you think courage looks like in her situation?

Friendship: How does Annemarie’s friendship with Ellen affect the choices she makes?

Family Loyalty: How do the Johansens support one another, and what might make family loyalty difficult during dangerous times?

Hidden Truths: Why do the characters need to keep secrets, and when might hiding the truth protect someone?

Helping Others: What can Number the Stars teach us about standing up for people who are being treated unfairly?