Number the Stars
Number the Stars begins with German troops starting their campaign to “relocate” all the Jews of Denmark. Annemarie Johansen’s family takes in Annemarie’s best friend, Ellen Rosen, and conceals her as part of the family.
Through the eyes of ten-year-old Annemarie, we watch as the Danish Resistance uproots Jews from their homes. The Resistance smuggles almost the entire Jewish population of Denmark. That population, nearly seven thousand people, makes its way across the sea to Sweden.
The heroism of an entire nation reminds us that there was still pride and human decency. Even during a time of terror and war, people can endure. This book won the Newberry Medal.
A modern classic of historical fiction, Number the Stars has won generations of fans and continues to speak to today’s readers.
As School Library Journal put it: “Readers are taken to the very heart of Annemarie’s experience, and, through her eyes, come to understand the true meaning of bravery.”
