Tuesday, October 07, 2014

Number the Stars

by Lois Lowry

Copenhagen, 1943. Annemarie Johansen is ten years old. And she is best friends with Ellen Rosen.

Our story begins with a button. Annemarie is sent to Mrs. Hirsch’s shop to buy a button, but arrives to find the shop closed. There is a notice on the shop, and it is written in German. It also includes a swastika.

What follows is a gripping tale of a family and friends and one nation’s determination to protect its citizens. Annemarie and her family will live through the German occupation of Denmark and the “relocation” of Danish Jews.

As part of the Resistance, the Johansen family will help the Rosen family (and others) at any cost. Even Annemarie will play a part in saving the Rosens.

I really admire this novel for children. It teaches history without being too pedantic or preachy. The story of the Danish Resistance is unique. It allows the author a chance to write about a difficult time in history with a different perspective. 

10/7/14

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