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Number the Stars summary
Brief summary
Number the Stars is a historical fiction novel by Lois Lowry. Set in Nazi-occupied Denmark, it tells the story of ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen and her family's courageous efforts to save their Jewish friends during World War II.
Table of Contents
Number the Stars
Summary of key ideas
World War II in Denmark
In Number the Stars by Lois Lowry, we are transported to Copenhagen, Denmark, during World War II. The story revolves around the Johansen family, particularly ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen, and her Jewish best friend, Ellen Rosen. As the Nazis begin their occupation of Denmark, the Jewish population faces increasing danger, and the Johansens decide to help their friends.
The Johansens take Ellen in, pretending she is their daughter, and they must navigate the dangerous situation with caution. The family's bravery and the girls' friendship are central themes in the book. Annemarie, despite her young age, plays a crucial role in protecting Ellen and helping her escape to safety.
The Resistance and a Dangerous Mission
As the story progresses, we learn more about the Danish Resistance, a group of brave individuals who worked to undermine the Nazi occupation. Annemarie's older sister, Lise, was part of this resistance and died in a car accident while on a mission. Lise's death deeply affected the family, and Annemarie's parents are careful not to involve their children in their resistance activities.
However, as the situation becomes increasingly dire for the Jewish population, the Johansens are forced to take a risk. They agree to help Ellen's parents, who are in imminent danger of being captured by the Nazis, escape to Sweden. The plan involves a dangerous journey by boat, and the Johansens must find a way to get the Rosens to safety without being caught.
A Brave Act of Courage
As the day of the escape approaches, the Johansens' home is visited by Nazi soldiers, who search the house for any signs of Jewish activity. In a heart-stopping moment, Annemarie is stopped by a soldier while delivering a package to her uncle. She remains calm and manages to convince the soldier that the package contains only food for her uncle's dog.
After the soldiers leave, the family realizes that the package Annemarie was carrying actually contained important documents for the Rosens' escape. Annemarie, showing incredible bravery, decides to deliver the package herself, taking the dangerous journey to the boat. She successfully delivers the documents, and the Rosens are able to escape to Sweden.
Lessons of Bravery and Friendship
In the end, the Rosens are safe, and the war eventually comes to an end. The Johansens' bravery and the sacrifices they made to help their friends are a testament to the power of friendship and the human spirit. Annemarie's courage, in particular, is a shining example of the strength that can be found even in the youngest among us.
As the title suggests, Number the Stars is a story of hope and resilience in the face of darkness. It is a reminder of the bravery shown by ordinary people during extraordinary times and the importance of standing up for what is right. The book ends with a sense of hope for the future, as the characters look forward to rebuilding their lives after the war.
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What is Number the Stars about?
Number the Stars by Lois Lowry is a powerful historical fiction novel set during World War II. It tells the story of a young girl named Annemarie Johansen and her family, who risk their lives to help their Jewish friends escape from the Nazis in Denmark. Through themes of bravery, friendship, and resistance, the book highlights the courage of ordinary people in the face of extraordinary circumstances.
Number the Stars Review
Number the Stars (1989) by Lois Lowry tells the powerful story of a young girl named Annemarie during World War II and her efforts to protect her Jewish friend from the Nazis. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It provides a gripping and emotional account of the bravery and resilience of ordinary people in the face of great danger.
- The friendship and loyalty depicted in the book highlight the strength of human connections in times of adversity.
- With its detailed historical context and authentic portrayals of characters, the story offers a poignant reminder of the impact of war on innocent lives.
Who should read Number the Stars?
- Readers interested in historical fiction set during WWII
- Young adult readers looking for a coming-of-age story
- Educators and parents seeking a way to introduce children to the Holocaust with sensitivity
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Number the Stars FAQs
What is the main message of Number the Stars?
The main message of Number the Stars is the courage and resilience shown by ordinary people during wartime.
How long does it take to read Number the Stars?
The reading time for Number the Stars varies, but it typically takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Number the Stars a good book? Is it worth reading?
Number the Stars is a gripping and thought-provoking read. It gives a unique perspective on World War II and is definitely worth reading.
Who is the author of Number the Stars?
The author of Number the Stars is Lois Lowry.
What to read after Number the Stars?
If you're wondering what to read next after Number the Stars, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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