Plot Summary
Racing Shadows in Copenhagen
Annemarie Johansen, a ten-year-old Danish girl, races her best friend Ellen Rosen through the streets of Nazi-occupied Copenhagen. Their laughter is cut short by German soldiers, a chilling reminder that their world is no longer safe. Annemarie's family, including her little sister Kirsti, tries to maintain normalcy amid rationing and fear. The girls' friendship is a source of comfort, but the presence of soldiers and whispered talk of the Resistance foreshadow the dangers ahead. Annemarie's parents, quietly brave, discuss the growing threat to their Jewish neighbors, and Annemarie begins to sense that her childhood is slipping away, replaced by a world where courage and caution are necessary for survival.
King Christian's Quiet Defiance
Annemarie's father tells her stories of King Christian X, who rides alone through Copenhagen, a symbol of Danish unity and resistance. The king's vulnerability and the people's loyalty become a source of pride and comfort for Annemarie. The family recalls the loss of Annemarie's older sister, Lise, whose death is shrouded in mystery and sorrow. The king's daily rides and the story of Denmark's collective protection of him inspire Annemarie to consider what it means to be brave and to stand up for what is right, even when the enemy seems overwhelming.
The Vanishing Button Shop
The girls notice that Mrs. Hirsch's button shop is closed, marked with a German sign and a swastika. Annemarie learns from her parents and Peter, her late sister's fiancé, that Jewish businesses are being targeted. The Rosens, Ellen's family, are Jewish, and the threat to them becomes personal. Annemarie's realization that ordinary people must become protectors marks a turning point in her understanding of the war. The community's quiet solidarity and the growing danger to the Rosens set the stage for the choices Annemarie and her family will have to make.
Ellen's Secret Refuge
When the Nazis begin rounding up Danish Jews, Ellen is sent to hide with the Johansens. The family prepares for a tense night, knowing soldiers may come. Annemarie and Ellen must pretend to be sisters, and Annemarie's quick thinking saves Ellen when soldiers burst in, demanding answers. Annemarie rips Ellen's Star of David necklace from her neck, hiding her friend's identity. The family's courage and resourcefulness are tested as they risk everything to protect Ellen, embodying the Danish spirit of resistance and compassion.
Night Visitors and Deception
German soldiers search the Johansen apartment, suspicious of Ellen's dark hair. Annemarie's father produces baby photos of his daughters, including one of Lise with dark hair, to convince the soldiers that Ellen is his child. The tension is palpable, but the family's quick thinking averts disaster. The incident leaves Annemarie shaken but determined, and the family realizes they must get Ellen to safety outside the city. The episode cements Annemarie's role as a protector and deepens her understanding of the risks involved.
Escape to the Seaside
Annemarie, her mother, Kirsti, and Ellen travel by train to Uncle Henrik's house on the coast, using coded language to avoid suspicion. The journey is fraught with fear, as soldiers patrol the train and question passengers. The countryside offers a brief respite, but the threat of discovery is ever-present. Uncle Henrik's home, near the sea and Sweden, becomes a haven, but also a place of secrets. Annemarie senses that more is happening than she is told, and her curiosity and anxiety grow as the adults prepare for something momentous.
The House of Hidden Truths
At Uncle Henrik's farmhouse, Annemarie and Ellen experience a fleeting return to childhood pleasures, but the atmosphere is tense. The adults clean and prepare the house, and Annemarie overhears cryptic conversations about a funeral for a Great-aunt Birte she's never heard of. Sensing deception, Annemarie confronts her uncle, who explains that sometimes not knowing everything is a form of bravery. The house becomes a gathering place for other Jews in hiding, and Annemarie realizes the depth of the danger and the courage required from everyone involved.
The Invented Funeral
A fake funeral is staged for the nonexistent Great-aunt Birte, providing cover for the gathering of Jews who will be smuggled to Sweden. The tension escalates when German soldiers arrive, suspicious of the unusual activity. Annemarie, coached to lie, claims Birte was her great-aunt. The soldiers demand to see the body, but Mama's quick thinking—claiming Birte died of typhus—dissuades them. The casket, actually filled with clothing and supplies, is left unopened. The episode highlights the necessity of deception in the face of evil and the courage required to maintain it.
The Casket's Secret
After the soldiers leave, Peter distributes the contents of the casket—coats, food, and a mysterious packet—to the hidden Jews. The packet is entrusted to Mr. Rosen, with instructions to deliver it to Henrik. The group prepares for their escape, and Peter leads the first group to the boat. Annemarie says a difficult goodbye to Ellen, promising to keep her necklace safe. The family's home becomes a waypoint in a network of resistance, and Annemarie's role as a helper and witness deepens.
The Midnight Crossing
Mama leads the Rosens through the dark woods to Uncle Henrik's boat, where they will be smuggled to Sweden. On her return, Mama is injured, and Annemarie discovers the crucial packet was dropped. Realizing its importance, Annemarie bravely volunteers to deliver it, disguising it in a lunch basket. On the path, she is stopped by soldiers and dogs, but her quick thinking and feigned innocence allow her to pass. The packet, containing a drug-laced handkerchief to disable the dogs' sense of smell, ensures the refugees' safe passage.
The Handkerchief's Power
Annemarie learns from Uncle Henrik that the handkerchief was essential to the escape, as it neutralized the dogs used by the Nazis to sniff out hidden Jews. The ingenuity of the Resistance and the bravery of ordinary people like Annemarie are celebrated. The Rosens and others reach Sweden safely, and Annemarie's actions are recognized as heroic, even though she felt only fear at the time. The episode underscores the power of small acts of courage and the importance of collective effort in the face of oppression.
The War's Long Shadow
The war drags on for two more years. Annemarie's family, like many Danes, cares for the homes and belongings of their Jewish neighbors. Peter is executed by the Nazis, and Annemarie learns the truth about her sister Lise's death—she was part of the Resistance and was killed by the Nazis. The cost of courage is high, but the community's solidarity endures. The end of the war brings relief and mourning, as the survivors honor the memory of those lost and look forward to the return of friends.
The Promise of Return
With the war over, Annemarie retrieves Ellen's Star of David necklace, which she had hidden for safekeeping. She asks her father to repair it, vowing to return it to Ellen when she comes home. The gesture symbolizes the enduring bond between the girls and the hope for a future free from fear. Annemarie's journey from innocence to maturity is complete, and she stands as a testament to the quiet heroism of ordinary people.
Truths Revealed
Annemarie learns the full truth about her sister Lise's involvement in the Resistance and the circumstances of her death. The family's sacrifices and the risks they took are brought into sharp relief. Annemarie reflects on the meaning of bravery, the pain of loss, and the importance of standing up for what is right. The revelations deepen her understanding of her family's legacy and the collective struggle of her nation.
The Stars Remember
As Denmark celebrates liberation, Annemarie looks to the stars, recalling the psalm Peter read and the promise that the scattered sons of Israel would be gathered. The story ends with a sense of hope and renewal, as Annemarie prepares to return Ellen's necklace and rebuild a world where decency and courage prevail. The stars, once a symbol of fear and hiding, become a symbol of remembrance and the enduring light of humanity.
Characters
Annemarie Johansen
Annemarie is a ten-year-old Danish girl whose journey from innocence to maturity forms the heart of the story. Initially preoccupied with school and friendship, she is thrust into the adult world of danger and moral choices by the Nazi occupation. Her loyalty to Ellen and her family's quiet resistance force her to confront fear and uncertainty. Annemarie's psychological development is marked by her struggle to understand bravery—not as the absence of fear, but as action in spite of it. Her quick thinking and willingness to risk herself for others reveal a deep well of courage, and by the end, she embodies the resilience and decency that the novel celebrates.
Ellen Rosen
Ellen is Annemarie's best friend and a Jewish girl whose life is imperiled by the Nazi occupation. Her presence in the Johansen household catalyzes the family's involvement in the Resistance. Ellen's vulnerability and trust in Annemarie highlight the power of friendship and the human cost of prejudice. She is resourceful and brave in her own right, enduring fear and uncertainty with quiet strength. Ellen's relationship with Annemarie is central, representing the bonds that transcend religious and cultural divides.
Mrs. Johansen (Inge)
Annemarie's mother is a model of calm courage and resourcefulness. She orchestrates the family's efforts to protect Ellen and guides Annemarie through the complexities of resistance. Her ability to lie convincingly to soldiers and her willingness to risk her safety for others demonstrate her moral clarity and strength. Mrs. Johansen's nurturing presence anchors the family, and her injury during the escape underscores the physical and emotional toll of resistance.
Mr. Johansen
Annemarie's father is a thoughtful, principled man who supports the Resistance in subtle ways. His quick thinking during the soldiers' search and his coded conversations reflect his intelligence and commitment to justice. He provides Annemarie with stories and guidance that shape her understanding of courage and responsibility. His grief over Lise's death and his care for Ellen's family reveal his deep empathy.
Kirsti Johansen
Kirsti, Annemarie's younger sister, is too young to fully grasp the dangers around her. Her innocence and stubbornness provide moments of levity and highlight what is at stake—the preservation of childhood and normalcy. Kirsti's unfiltered reactions and questions often diffuse tension, and her presence reminds the others of the world they are fighting to protect.
Peter Neilsen
Peter, Lise's former fiancé, is a member of the Danish Resistance. His bravery and resourcefulness are instrumental in the escape of the Rosens and others. Peter's secretive activities and ultimate execution by the Nazis underscore the risks faced by those who opposed the occupation. He serves as a mentor and inspiration to Annemarie, embodying the ideal of selfless sacrifice.
Uncle Henrik
Uncle Henrik is a fisherman who uses his boat to ferry Jews to safety in Sweden. His calm demeanor and practical wisdom provide reassurance to Annemarie and her family. Henrik's explanations about bravery and the necessity of secrecy help Annemarie understand the complexities of resistance. His home becomes a sanctuary, and his actions are crucial to the success of the escape.
Lise Johansen
Lise, Annemarie's older sister, is a haunting presence throughout the novel. Her mysterious death is later revealed to be the result of her involvement in the Resistance. Lise's memory shapes her family's actions and serves as a reminder of the personal cost of standing up to tyranny. Her legacy inspires Annemarie's own acts of courage.
The Rosens (Mr. and Mrs. Rosen)
Ellen's parents represent the plight of Danish Jews during the occupation. Their trust in the Johansens and their resilience in the face of danger highlight the importance of solidarity and community. Their escape is a testament to the power of collective action and the decency of ordinary people.
King Christian X
Though not a direct participant in the plot, King Christian X embodies the spirit of Danish resistance. His daily rides through Copenhagen and the legend of Denmark as his bodyguard inspire courage and unity among the people. He serves as a moral touchstone for Annemarie and her family.
Plot Devices
Child's Perspective
The story is told through Annemarie's eyes, allowing readers to experience the events with a mixture of naivety and growing awareness. This perspective heightens the tension, as the reader often knows more than the protagonist, and underscores the loss of innocence brought by war. The child's viewpoint also makes the moral choices and acts of bravery more poignant, as they are filtered through a developing sense of right and wrong.
Symbolism of Stars and the Necklace
The title and recurring imagery of stars evoke both the Star of David and the biblical promise of counting the stars—representing the Jewish people and the hope for deliverance. Ellen's necklace, hidden and later returned, symbolizes the preservation of identity and the enduring bonds of friendship. The stars also serve as a reminder of the vastness of the world and the possibility of a better future.
Foreshadowing and Suspense
Lowry uses foreshadowing to build suspense, from the early encounters with soldiers to the mysterious preparations at Uncle Henrik's house. The gradual revelation of secrets and the constant threat of discovery keep the reader engaged and heighten the emotional stakes. The use of coded language and hidden meanings reflects the necessity of secrecy in times of oppression.
The Handkerchief as Plot Device
The handkerchief containing a drug to disable dogs' sense of smell is a crucial plot device, blending historical fact with narrative ingenuity. Its delivery by Annemarie is the climax of her journey from innocence to heroism, and its effectiveness ensures the success of the escape. The handkerchief represents the intersection of ordinary objects and extraordinary courage.
Narrative Structure
The novel follows a linear structure, moving from the relative safety of Copenhagen to the perilous escape to Sweden. Each chapter builds on the previous one, with escalating risks and deepening character development. The structure mirrors Annemarie's transformation and the collective journey of the Danish people from occupation to liberation.
Analysis
Number the Stars is a powerful exploration of courage, morality, and the resilience of ordinary people in extraordinary times. Through the eyes of a child, Lois Lowry examines the complexities of resistance, the necessity of deception, and the cost of standing up to injustice. The novel celebrates the quiet heroism of those who risked everything to save their neighbors, emphasizing that bravery is not the absence of fear but the willingness to act in spite of it. The use of symbolism, particularly the stars and Ellen's necklace, reinforces themes of hope, identity, and the enduring bonds of friendship. By grounding the story in historical fact and focusing on the experiences of a single family, Lowry makes the Holocaust accessible and relatable to young readers, while offering timeless lessons about empathy, solidarity, and the importance of doing what is right, even when it is difficult. The novel's message—that a world of human decency is possible when individuals choose compassion over indifference—remains as urgent and inspiring today as it was in 1943.
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FAQ
Synopsis & Basic Details
What is Number the Stars about?
- Courage in Occupation: Number the Stars follows ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen in Nazi-occupied Copenhagen, 1943, as her family risks everything to help their Jewish friends, the Rosens, escape to neutral Sweden. The story centers on the Danish Resistance's efforts to smuggle nearly all of Denmark's Jewish population to safety.
- Child's Perspective on War: Through Annemarie's eyes, the novel explores themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the loss of innocence, as she navigates a world of rationing, German soldiers, and dangerous secrets. She learns to distinguish between truth and necessary deception, and to act with courage despite her fear.
- Human Decency Prevails: Ultimately, it is a testament to the collective heroism and moral integrity of the Danish people, who, under the symbolic leadership of King Christian X, united to protect their Jewish countrymen from persecution, embodying a profound ideal of human decency.
Why should I read Number the Stars?
- Inspiring True History: Readers should engage with Number the Stars for its powerful portrayal of a real historical event—the rescue of Danish Jews during the Holocaust—making complex history accessible and deeply moving for young and old alike. Lois Lowry's Afterword confirms the factual basis for many key elements, including the King's rides and the handkerchief.
- Exploration of Bravery: The novel offers a nuanced understanding of bravery, showing it not as the absence of fear, but as action in spite of it, through Annemarie's journey. It encourages readers to consider their own capacity for courage and moral action in difficult times, as Lowry states in her Introduction: "Would I have done that? they ask themselves... What choice would I have made?"
- Timeless Themes: Beyond its historical context, the book delves into universal themes of friendship, family loyalty, sacrifice, and the fight against injustice, making it a relevant and thought-provoking read that shapes "idea of how people should be treated," as a reader quoted in the Introduction expressed.
What is the background of Number the Stars?
- Danish Occupation, 1940-1945: The story is set during the German occupation of Denmark, which began in 1940. Unlike other countries, Denmark surrendered quickly due to its small size and lack of military, as Papa explains: "Our king was wise. He knew how few soldiers Denmark had." This led to a unique form of occupation where daily life continued under strict German control.
- The Rescue of Danish Jews, 1943: The pivotal historical event is the mass evacuation of nearly 7,000 Danish Jews to Sweden in October 1943. This was triggered by a German official, G. F. Duckwitz, who leaked the Nazi plan to "relocate" (arrest and deport) all Danish Jews to the Danish government, allowing the Resistance and ordinary citizens to organize their escape.
- Civilian Resistance & Ingenuity: The book highlights the extraordinary civilian resistance, where ordinary Danes, including fishermen, doctors, and families like the Johansens, actively participated in hiding and smuggling Jews. This included ingenious methods like the drug-laced handkerchief, a real historical detail, which temporarily destroyed the sense of smell of Nazi dogs, as Uncle Henrik explains in Chapter 16.
What are the most memorable quotes in Number the Stars?
- "All of Denmark is his bodyguard.": This quote, spoken by a Danish boy about King Christian X in Chapter 2, encapsulates the profound national unity and quiet defiance of the Danish people. It symbolizes their collective spirit of resistance and loyalty, suggesting that the strength of a nation lies not just in its army, but in the solidarity of its citizens.
- "It is much easier to be brave if you do not know everything.": Uncle Henrik's profound statement to Annemarie in Chapter 9 reveals a key theme about the nature of courage. It suggests that sometimes, ignorance of the full danger allows one to act without paralyzing fear, enabling ordinary people to perform extraordinary acts of heroism.
- "He who numbers the stars one by one...": This line from Psalm 147, read by Peter in Chapter 10, is the origin of the book's title and a powerful symbol. It refers to God's infinite knowledge and care for each individual, particularly the scattered "sons of Israel," offering a message of hope, remembrance, and the enduring value of every human life amidst the vastness and cruelty of war.
What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Lois Lowry use?
- Simple, Evocative Prose: Lowry employs a clear, direct, and accessible writing style, making complex historical events understandable for young readers. Her prose is often sparse yet evocative, allowing the emotional weight of the narrative to resonate without overly descriptive language, as seen in the stark descriptions of the soldiers or the quiet tension in the Johansen apartment.
- Limited Third-Person Perspective: The story is primarily told through Annemarie's limited third-person perspective, which effectively conveys the confusion, fear, and gradual understanding of a child during wartime. This narrative choice heightens suspense, as the reader often learns information only as Annemarie does, or through her innocent misinterpretations, such as Kirsti's belief about the "fireworks" in Chapter 4.
- Symbolism and Foreshadowing: Lowry masterfully weaves in rich symbolism (e.g., the Star of David necklace, the "numbered stars," the sea) and subtle foreshadowing (e.g., Peter's changed demeanor, the closed button shop, the "fishing" code). These literary devices deepen the narrative's meaning, add layers of tension, and allow readers to uncover hidden truths alongside Annemarie, enriching the overall Number the Stars analysis.
Hidden Details & Subtle Connections
What are some minor details that add significant meaning?
- Kirsti's Fish Shoes: The "ugly fish shoes" in Chapter 4, initially a source of childish complaint, subtly highlight the severe rationing and resourcefulness required during the occupation. Ellen's offer to dye them black with her father's ink symbolizes the ingenuity and adaptation necessary for survival, transforming something undesirable into something acceptable, much like the Danes' transformation of their daily lives.
- The Gray Kitten, Thor: The kitten, named "Thor, for the God of Thunder" by Kirsti in Chapter 8, appears at key moments, offering brief moments of normalcy and comfort amidst escalating danger. Its presence underscores the fragility of innocence and the simple joys that persist even in wartime, while also serving as a small, vulnerable creature that needs protection, mirroring the larger human plight.
- Lise's Blue Trunk: The blue carved trunk in Annemarie's bedroom, mentioned in Chapter 2 and revisited in Chapter 17, is a silent repository of hidden truths and unresolved grief. It holds Lise's unworn wedding dress and other belongings, symbolizing the life that was tragically cut short and the secrets the family kept, ultimately revealing Lise's brave involvement in the Resistance and the true nature of her death.
What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?
- King Christian's "Bodyguard": Papa's story in Chapter 2 about the Danish boy telling a German soldier that "All of Denmark is his bodyguard" for King Christian X subtly foreshadows the collective, nation-wide effort to protect the Jewish population. Annemarie later explicitly connects this idea in Chapter 3: "now I think that all of Denmark must be bodyguard for the Jews, as well," setting the stage for the widespread Resistance.
- Mama's "Clumsy Fool": In Chapter 13, after Mama injures her ankle, she scolds herself, "So clumsy... I probably looked like a drunkard!" This seemingly self-deprecating comment is a callback to the "silly, empty-headed little girl" persona Annemarie is instructed to adopt if stopped by soldiers. It subtly reinforces the theme of feigned innocence as a survival tactic, showing how even adults must sometimes appear foolish to avoid suspicion.
- Peter's Changed Demeanor: From Chapter 2 onwards, Peter Neilsen is described as no longer "fun-loving" or singing "nonsense songs," but "usually in a hurry, talking quickly to Mama and Papa about things Annemarie didn't understand." This consistent portrayal subtly foreshadows his deep involvement in the dangerous Resistance work, hinting at the heavy burden he carries long before his role is explicitly revealed in Chapter 16 and his ultimate sacrifice in Chapter 17.
What are some unexpected character connections?
- Annemarie and the German Soldier (Giraffe): In Chapter 1, the "Giraffe" soldier, initially a figure of fear, briefly smiles at Kirsti and comments, "She is pretty, like my own little girl." This fleeting moment creates an unexpected, unsettling connection, hinting at the soldiers' own humanity and personal lives, complicating Annemarie's black-and-white view of the enemy and underscoring the universal bond of parenthood.
- Kirsti's Unwitting Role in Deception: Kirsti, due to her innocence and inability to grasp the danger, inadvertently aids the deception multiple times. Her insistence on wearing her "brand-new shiny black shoes" in Chapter 6 distracts the soldiers on the train, preventing her from revealing Ellen's Jewish New Year. Her simple, childish focus on trivial details serves as an unexpected shield, highlighting how innocence can be a powerful, if unintentional, tool in wartime.
- Peter and the Scientists/Doctors: The revelation in Chapter 16 that Peter "took the problem to scientists and doctors" to create the dog-numbing handkerchief reveals an unexpected connection between the Resistance's practical needs and the intellectual community. This highlights the collaborative and ingenious nature of the Danish Resistance, showing that the fight for freedom involved not just physical bravery but also intellectual prowess and collective problem-solving.
Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis
What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?
- Mama's Fierce Protective Instinct: Beyond simply being a "maternal strength," Mama's actions are driven by an almost primal need to shield her children and Ellen from the horrors of war. Her calm demeanor during the soldier's search in Chapter 5, her quick lie about typhus in Chapter 10, and her painful journey back after her injury in Chapter 13, all stem from an unspoken, fierce determination to preserve innocence and life, even at great personal cost.
- Mr. Johansen's Quiet Burden: Mr. Johansen's "serious and drawn" face (Chapter 3) and his careful consideration of questions (Chapter 2) reveal an unspoken burden of responsibility. His motivation is not just to protect his family, but to uphold the moral integrity of his nation. He cannot actively participate in the escape, but his decision to stay in Copenhagen and maintain normalcy is a silent act of courage, bearing the fear and uncertainty for those he loves.
- Peter's Grief-Fueled Dedication: Peter's transformation from a "fun-loving older brother" to a "very, very brave young man" (Chapter 2, Chapter 16) is subtly motivated by his unresolved grief for Lise. His dedication to the Resistance, and his ultimate sacrifice, can be interpreted as a way to honor Lise's memory and continue her fight for a free Denmark, channeling his sorrow into purposeful action.
What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?
- Annemarie's Evolving Bravery: Annemarie grapples with the psychological complexity of fear versus bravery. Initially, she admits to herself she isn't sure if she could "die to protect them" (Chapter 3). Her journey shows bravery as a learned behavior, a conscious choice made despite terror, culminating in her solo run with the packet, where she "willed herself... to behave as Kirsti would" (Chapter 15), demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of strategic innocence.
- The Burden of Deception: The adults, particularly Mama and Uncle Henrik, exhibit the psychological strain of constant deception. They must lie convincingly to their children and to the enemy, creating a world of necessary untruths. Uncle Henrik explains this burden in Chapter 9: "it is much easier to be brave if you do not know everything," highlighting the emotional toll of withholding information, even for protection.
- Ellen's Quiet Resilience: Ellen, as the direct target of persecution, displays remarkable psychological resilience. Despite her initial terror (Chapter 4), her ability to adapt to new identities, her quiet acceptance of the dangers, and her focus on small comforts (like the kitten in Chapter 7) reveal a deep inner strength. Her "dignified" posture even in ill-fitting clothes (Chapter 11) underscores her refusal to be broken by circumstances.
What are the major emotional turning points?
- The Soldiers' Apartment Search: The terrifying search of the Johansen apartment in Chapter 5 is a major emotional turning point, shattering Annemarie's remaining illusions of safety. Her desperate act of tearing off Ellen's necklace and the subsequent confrontation with the soldiers force her to confront raw fear and the immediate reality of danger, marking her transition from observer to active participant in the deception.
- Annemarie's Confrontation with Uncle Henrik: In Chapter 9, Annemarie's direct confrontation with Uncle Henrik about "Great-aunt Birte" ("You are lying to me. You and Mama both.") is a pivotal emotional moment. It signifies her loss of childhood innocence and her entry into the adult world of secrets and necessary lies, forging a new, more mature understanding and trust with her uncle.
- Mama's Injury and Annemarie's Solo Mission: Mama's fall and broken ankle in Chapter 13, and Annemarie's subsequent decision to deliver the packet alone, represent the ultimate emotional test. This moment forces Annemarie to step fully into a heroic role, overcoming her fear for her mother and herself, and demonstrating the profound courage she has developed throughout the narrative.
How do relationship dynamics evolve?
- Annemarie and Mama: From Child to Equal: The relationship between Annemarie and Mama evolves significantly, moving from a typical mother-daughter dynamic to one of shared responsibility and mutual understanding. In Chapter 9, when Annemarie realizes Mama is lying about Great-aunt Birte, Lowry notes, "In that moment, with that look, they became equals," signifying Annemarie's maturation and Mama's recognition of her daughter's growing capacity for understanding and courage.
- Annemarie and Ellen: Friendship Forged in Crisis: Their bond deepens from typical childhood friendship to a profound connection forged under extreme duress. Ellen's reliance on Annemarie for protection and Annemarie's fierce loyalty (e.g., hiding the necklace, risking her life) transform their relationship into a powerful symbol of solidarity and enduring hope, culminating in Ellen's whispered promise, "I'll come back someday" (Chapter 12).
- The Johansen Family: A Unit of Resistance: The entire Johansen family unit transforms into a cohesive, clandestine cell of the Resistance. Papa's quick thinking, Mama's brave actions, Annemarie's growing courage, and even Kirsti's unwitting innocence all contribute to their collective effort. Their shared danger and mutual trust strengthen their familial bonds, demonstrating how ordinary families can become extraordinary agents of change.
Interpretation & Debate
Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?
- The Rosens' Future in Sweden: While Uncle Henrik confirms the Rosens are "safe in Sweden now" (Chapter 16), the story leaves their long-term future ambiguous. It doesn't detail their lives as refugees or their eventual return, prompting readers to consider the lasting impact of displacement and the challenges of rebuilding lives after trauma, even in safety.
- The Full Scope of the Resistance: The novel provides glimpses into the Danish Resistance through Peter and Uncle Henrik, but the full extent of their network and operations remains largely ambiguous. This narrative choice emphasizes the secrecy and decentralized nature of such movements, leaving readers to ponder the countless other unsung heroes and the complex logistics behind such a massive rescue effort.
- The Psychological Aftermath for Annemarie: While Annemarie demonstrates immense bravery, the story concludes shortly after the war's end, leaving the long-term psychological impact of her experiences open-ended. Readers might debate how her childhood, marked by fear, deception, and loss (Peter, Lise), will shape her adult life, and how she will process the profound events she witnessed and participated in.
What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Number the Stars?
- The "Great-aunt Birte" Lie: The elaborate deception involving a nonexistent "Great-aunt Birte" and a fake funeral (Chapters 8-10) raises ethical questions about the necessity and morality of lying, even for a good cause. While presented as a means to save lives, it forces Annemarie to lie to her best friend, prompting debate on whether the ends always justify the means, and the psychological cost of such deception.
- Drugging the Baby: Peter's decision to give the baby Rachel a few drops of a drug to keep her from crying during the escape (Chapter 11) can be a controversial moment. While presented as a pragmatic necessity for the safety of all refugees, it raises questions about consent, the vulnerability of infants, and the extreme measures people were forced to take under duress, sparking discussion on the moral compromises of wartime.
- Portrayal of German Soldiers: Some might debate whether the German soldiers are portrayed too simplistically as purely evil or easily fooled. While the "Giraffe" soldier shows a brief moment of humanity (Chapter 1), and the soldiers on the path are depicted as somewhat dim-witted (Chapter 15), this portrayal might be seen as downplaying the pervasive threat and brutality of the Nazi regime, though it serves the narrative's focus on Danish courage.
Number the Stars Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means
- Lise's Truth and Peter's Sacrifice: The ending of Number the Stars reveals the full truth about Lise's death: she was part of the Resistance and was killed by a military car, not a random accident (Chapter 17). This revelation, coupled with Peter's execution, underscores the immense personal cost of resistance and the tragic sacrifices made by young, idealistic individuals. It transforms Lise from a figure of quiet grief into a martyr for freedom, deepening the family's legacy of courage.
- Ellen's Necklace: Enduring Hope and Identity: Annemarie retrieves Ellen's Star of David necklace, which she had hidden for two years, and asks her father to repair it, vowing to wear it until Ellen returns (Chapter 17). This act symbolizes the enduring bond of friendship, the preservation of Jewish identity, and the unwavering hope for a future where the Rosens can return to a free Denmark. The necklace, once a symbol of danger, becomes a powerful emblem of survival and remembrance.
- "Numbering the Stars" and Human Decency: The title's reference to Psalm 147 ("he who numbers the stars one by one") is fully realized
Review Summary
Number the Stars is a beloved historical fiction novel set in World War II Denmark. Readers praise its educational value, emotional impact, and age-appropriate portrayal of Holocaust themes. The story follows young Annemarie as her family helps Jewish friends escape Nazi persecution. Many highlight the book's exploration of bravery, friendship, and human decency in the face of evil. While primarily aimed at children, adults find it equally compelling and appreciate its historical accuracy. The novel's hopeful tone and focus on Danish resistance efforts make it a popular choice for introducing young readers to World War II history.
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