number the stars literature guide

Number the Stars: A Comprehensive Literature Guide

This guide delves into Lois Lowry’s poignant novel, exploring themes of courage, friendship, and resistance during Denmark’s Nazi occupation, offering detailed analysis and summaries.

Lois Lowry’s Number the Stars, a Newbery Medal winner, stands as a powerful and accessible introduction to the complexities of World War II and the Holocaust for young readers. Set in 1943 Copenhagen, Denmark, the novel masterfully portrays the bravery of ordinary citizens who risked their lives to save their Jewish neighbors from Nazi persecution. The story unfolds through the eyes of Annemarie Johansen, a ten-year-old girl whose life is irrevocably altered when her best friend, Ellen Rosen, and her family are targeted.

This compelling narrative isn’t a direct depiction of concentration camps, but rather focuses on the Danish Resistance’s remarkable efforts to smuggle Jewish people to neutral Sweden. Number the Stars emphasizes themes of courage, loyalty, and the importance of standing up against injustice, even in the face of overwhelming danger. It’s a story of hope and resilience, reminding us of the power of individual actions during extraordinary times.

II. Author Background: Lois Lowry

Lois Lowry, born March 20, 1937, is a highly acclaimed American author primarily known for her young adult and children’s literature; Before dedicating herself fully to writing, Lowry pursued various paths, including studies at the University of Southern Maine and a career in photography. Her writing often tackles complex and challenging themes, exploring difficult subjects with sensitivity and nuance.

Lowry’s breakthrough came with Number the Stars in 1989, which earned her the Newbery Medal. She is also celebrated for The Giver, a dystopian novel that sparked considerable debate and remains a staple in school curricula. Throughout her career, Lowry has consistently demonstrated a commitment to honest storytelling, prompting readers to confront important moral and ethical questions. Her work frequently draws upon personal experiences and historical events, enriching her narratives with authenticity and depth.

III. Historical Context: Nazi Occupation of Denmark (1943)

In April 1940, Nazi Germany occupied Denmark, initially with a relatively lenient approach, seeking cooperation rather than outright oppression. However, as resistance grew and the war progressed, the occupation tightened. By 1943, the situation dramatically worsened for Danish Jews. The Nazis began planning their deportation to extermination camps, prompting a remarkable act of defiance from the Danish people.

In August 1943, a warning leaked, triggering a mass rescue operation. Over 7,200 Danish Jews, aided by courageous citizens, were smuggled to neutral Sweden across the narrow sea. Number the Stars vividly portrays this perilous period, highlighting the bravery of ordinary people who risked their lives to save their Jewish neighbors. The novel accurately reflects the atmosphere of fear, uncertainty, and quiet resistance that characterized Denmark during this dark chapter of history.

IV. Plot Summary

Number the Stars unfolds in Copenhagen, Denmark, in September 1943, narrated through the eyes of ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen. The story centers on her close friendship with Ellen Rosen, whose Jewish family faces increasing danger as the Nazi occupation intensifies. When the Nazis begin rounding up Jews, Annemarie’s family bravely agrees to hide Ellen, pretending she is Annemarie’s deceased sister.

The narrative follows their harrowing journey as they attempt to smuggle Ellen to Sweden, a neutral country offering refuge. This involves a perilous trip to Henrik’s boat, fraught with checkpoints and the constant threat of discovery. A mysterious package plays a crucial role, distracting the Nazi soldiers. Ultimately, the girls reach safety, showcasing the courage and resilience of ordinary people during extraordinary times, and the power of friendship in the face of adversity.

IV.A. Initial Setting and Annemarie’s Life

The novel begins in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1943, establishing a seemingly normal life for ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen. She lives with her parents and younger sister, Kirsti, in a cozy apartment building where her best friend, Ellen Rosen, also resides. Annemarie’s days are filled with school, playing with Kirsti, and anticipating the arrival of Ellen for their daily adventures.

This initial setting is crucial as it highlights the stark contrast between the peaceful existence the children know and the looming threat of the Nazi occupation. The everyday routines and innocent interactions emphasize what is at stake as the story progresses. Lowry skillfully portrays a sense of normalcy before the disruption, making the subsequent events even more impactful and demonstrating the fragility of peace.

IV.B. The Threat to the Rosen Family

The idyllic setting is shattered when the Nazi occupation intensifies, and the threat to the Jewish population of Denmark becomes increasingly real. Annemarie learns that the Rosen family is in danger, as the Nazis are actively seeking to relocate Jewish families. This revelation dramatically alters the narrative, introducing a sense of fear and urgency.

The Rosen family’s impending peril forces Annemarie and her family to confront the moral implications of the occupation. They must decide how to respond to the escalating danger facing their friends. The narrative highlights the bravery required to resist oppression and the difficult choices ordinary citizens faced during this tumultuous period, emphasizing the stakes for Ellen and her family.

IV.C. Going into Hiding and the Perilous Journey

To protect Ellen, the Rosen family is forced to go into hiding, entrusting Ellen’s care to Annemarie and the Johansens. This decision initiates a perilous journey fraught with danger and uncertainty. The narrative vividly portrays the fear and anxiety experienced by both families as they attempt to evade detection by the Nazis.

The Johansens bravely agree to shelter Ellen, knowing the risks involved. They must maintain a facade of normalcy while secretly harboring a Jewish friend. This section of the novel emphasizes the courage of ordinary people who risked their lives to help others during the occupation, highlighting the constant threat of discovery and the sacrifices made for friendship and loyalty.

IV.D. The Package and the Checkpoint

A crucial element of the escape plan involves a mysterious package, carefully prepared by Mr. Rosen, containing essential supplies for those in hiding. This package becomes central to a tense and suspenseful scene at a Nazi checkpoint. Annemarie, guided by her mother’s quick thinking, must bravely carry the package, concealing its true contents from the suspicious soldiers.

The checkpoint scene is a masterclass in building suspense, as Annemarie’s fear and determination are palpable. Lowry expertly portrays the psychological pressure and the potential consequences of failure. This moment underscores the constant danger faced by Jewish families and those aiding them, demonstrating the bravery required to resist oppression and the importance of deception in ensuring survival.

IV.E. Reaching Henrik’s Boat and Safety

The culmination of the perilous journey arrives with the desperate attempt to reach Henrik’s fishing boat, their gateway to Sweden and safety. Under the cover of darkness and a fierce storm, Annemarie and Ellen, along with the others, navigate the treacherous waters, relying on Henrik’s skill and courage. The sea, previously a symbol of potential danger, now represents freedom and hope.

Lowry vividly depicts the harrowing conditions and the emotional weight of this final leg of the escape. The successful boarding of the boat signifies a temporary reprieve from the immediate threat of Nazi persecution. While uncertainty remains, reaching Henrik’s boat marks a pivotal moment of triumph, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit and the power of collective action in the face of adversity.

V. Character Analysis

The novel’s strength lies in its compelling characters, each contributing to the narrative’s emotional depth and thematic resonance. Annemarie Johansen undergoes a significant transformation, evolving from a naive child to a courageous young woman forced to confront the harsh realities of war. Ellen Rosen embodies resilience and bravery, facing persecution with quiet dignity. Kirsti, though younger, provides a crucial perspective of innocence amidst chaos.

Mama Johansen demonstrates remarkable strength and resourcefulness, orchestrating the escape with unwavering determination. Papa Johansen’s involvement represents active resistance and personal sacrifice. Henrik, the fisherman, serves as a beacon of hope and a symbol of selfless aid. Through these characters, Lowry explores the complexities of human behavior during times of crisis, showcasing both vulnerability and extraordinary courage.

V.A. Annemarie Johansen: A Dynamic Protagonist

Annemarie begins as a typical ten-year-old, concerned with school and her sister, Kirsti. However, the escalating threat to Ellen and the Rosen family catalyzes a profound shift within her. Initially, she struggles to comprehend the gravity of the situation, relying on her parents’ guidance. As events unfold, Annemarie demonstrates increasing maturity and bravery, accepting responsibility and actively participating in the dangerous mission to protect Ellen.

Her journey highlights a loss of innocence, forcing her to confront the horrors of war and prejudice. We witness her growth through her actions – delivering the package, facing the German soldiers, and ultimately understanding the significance of her role. Annemarie’s dynamic character arc is central to the novel’s emotional impact, embodying the courage found in ordinary individuals.

V;B. Ellen Rosen: Facing Persecution with Courage

Ellen Rosen embodies quiet strength and resilience in the face of escalating persecution. As a Jewish girl in Nazi-occupied Denmark, she understands the imminent danger her family faces, yet displays remarkable composure. Forced to conceal her identity and leave her life behind, Ellen relies heavily on Annemarie’s friendship and the Johansens’ protection.

Despite her fear, Ellen doesn’t succumb to despair. She demonstrates bravery by cooperating with the plan to escape, understanding the risks involved. Her vulnerability and the injustice she experiences highlight the devastating impact of prejudice and discrimination. Ellen’s character serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of intolerance, and her courage inspires those around her.

V.C. Kirsti Johansen: Innocence and Perspective

Kirsti Johansen, Annemarie’s younger sister, represents the innocence of childhood amidst the growing darkness of war. Initially, she’s preoccupied with seemingly trivial matters – her boots, her scarf – providing a stark contrast to the serious events unfolding around her. Kirsti’s limited understanding of the danger allows her to voice concerns and questions that highlight the absurdity of the situation.

Her perspective, though naive, offers a crucial lens through which readers experience the story. Kirsti’s unwavering belief in fairness and her inability to grasp the concept of hatred underscore the tragedy of the Nazi occupation. While sometimes frustrating to Annemarie, Kirsti’s presence serves as a poignant reminder of what is at stake – the preservation of childhood and innocence.

V.D. Mama Johansen: Strength and Resourcefulness

Mrs. Johansen embodies quiet strength and remarkable resourcefulness throughout the novel. She navigates the perilous situation with a calm demeanor, masking her fear to protect her daughters and aid the Rosen family. Her ability to think quickly and adapt to changing circumstances is crucial to the success of the escape plan.

She demonstrates bravery not through overt acts of defiance, but through subtle acts of resistance and unwavering determination. Mrs. Johansen’s willingness to risk her own safety for Ellen and her family showcases her deep compassion and moral courage. She skillfully maintains a facade of normalcy, even as danger looms, protecting her children from the full weight of the occupation’s terror.

V.E. Papa Johansen: Resistance and Sacrifice

Mr. Johansen’s character represents a more overt form of resistance against the Nazi occupation. Though initially absent on a covert mission, his actions demonstrate a willingness to actively oppose the oppressors, placing himself in considerable danger. His disappearance creates a sense of uncertainty and fear for Annemarie and Kirsti, highlighting the risks faced by those who dared to challenge the regime.

His commitment to helping others, even at personal cost, underscores the theme of sacrifice prevalent throughout the novel. The mystery surrounding his work adds a layer of suspense, revealing a man dedicated to fighting for freedom and justice. He embodies the spirit of quiet heroism, risking everything for the safety of his friends and community.

V.F. Henrik: The Fisherman and Rescuer

Henrik, the fisherman, emerges as a pivotal figure in the narrative, embodying quiet courage and unwavering support for the Rosen family and the Johansens. His seemingly unassuming profession provides a crucial cover for his clandestine activities – assisting Jewish refugees in escaping to Sweden. He represents the everyday heroes who risked their lives to defy the Nazi regime.

Henrik’s boat becomes a symbol of hope and freedom, offering a perilous yet vital pathway to safety. His calm demeanor and resourcefulness are essential in navigating the dangerous journey, demonstrating his commitment to protecting those fleeing persecution. He exemplifies the power of individual action in the face of overwhelming oppression, offering a beacon of light during a dark time.

VI. Themes in Number the Stars

Number the Stars powerfully explores several interconnected themes central to the human experience during times of conflict. Courage and bravery, particularly in ordinary individuals, are paramount, demonstrated through the actions of Annemarie, her family, and Henrik. The novel deeply emphasizes the power of friendship and loyalty, showcased in the unwavering bond between Annemarie and Ellen, even amidst life-threatening circumstances.

Resistance against oppression is another key theme, highlighting how seemingly small acts of defiance can have significant impact. Furthermore, the story poignantly portrays the loss of innocence and the accelerated growth experienced by children forced to confront the harsh realities of war and persecution. These themes collectively create a compelling narrative about hope, resilience, and the importance of standing up for what is right;

VI.A. Courage and Bravery in the Face of Adversity

Courage isn’t depicted as grand heroism in Number the Stars, but rather as a series of small, deliberate acts of bravery undertaken by ordinary people. Annemarie’s journey exemplifies this, evolving from a naive girl to one who displays remarkable fortitude when tasked with a dangerous mission. The Johansens demonstrate courage by sheltering Ellen, risking their own safety to protect their friend.

Henrik’s willingness to smuggle the Rosen family to Sweden embodies profound bravery, defying the occupying forces. Even Kirsti, in her innocence, displays a quiet courage by attempting to understand the unfolding events. Lowry highlights that courage isn’t the absence of fear, but acting despite it, a vital message resonating throughout the narrative.

VI.B. The Power of Friendship and Loyalty

The bedrock of Number the Stars is the unwavering friendship between Annemarie and Ellen. Their bond transcends religious differences and the escalating danger surrounding them, showcasing loyalty as a powerful force against oppression. The Johansens’ commitment to the Rosen family exemplifies this, extending beyond mere acquaintance to a selfless act of protection.

This loyalty isn’t without risk, yet they choose to stand by their friends, demonstrating the strength of human connection. Henrik’s role as a rescuer further emphasizes this theme, driven by a sense of duty and compassion. Lowry illustrates how friendship provides solace, strength, and a reason to resist, even in the darkest of times, ultimately highlighting its enduring power.

VI.C. Resistance Against Oppression

Number the Stars subtly yet powerfully portrays resistance against Nazi oppression, not through grand acts of rebellion, but through the quiet courage of ordinary citizens. The Danish people’s collective effort to protect their Jewish neighbors, exemplified by the Johansens and Henrik, demonstrates a profound defiance. This resistance isn’t overtly violent; instead, it manifests as deception, bravery, and a refusal to comply with injustice.

The novel highlights how even small acts of courage – hiding Ellen, transporting refugees, and spreading misinformation – contribute to a larger movement of opposition. Lowry emphasizes that resistance takes many forms, and that standing up for what is right, even in the face of fear, is a vital act of humanity.

VI.D. Loss of Innocence and Growing Up

Annemarie’s journey in Number the Stars is fundamentally a story of lost innocence and accelerated maturity. Initially presented as a carefree ten-year-old, she’s abruptly confronted with the harsh realities of war, persecution, and the dangers faced by her friend, Ellen; This exposure forces her to confront difficult truths and shoulder responsibilities beyond her years.

Her playful world is shattered, replaced by a landscape of fear and uncertainty. Through witnessing the bravery of her family and others, Annemarie develops a deeper understanding of courage, loyalty, and the importance of standing up for what’s right. The novel beautifully illustrates how traumatic experiences can prematurely force a child to grow up, yet also reveal their inner strength.

VII. Symbolism in the Novel

Lowry masterfully employs symbolism throughout Number the Stars to enrich the narrative and convey deeper meanings. The Star of David necklace, initially a cherished possession of Ellen’s, transforms into a potent symbol of Jewish identity and the persecution they face under Nazi rule. It represents both faith and the danger of openly displaying it.

The sea serves as a powerful symbol of freedom and escape, representing the hope of reaching safety in Sweden. The perilous journey across the water embodies the risks taken to preserve life and liberty. Even the seemingly innocuous “package” – containing handkerchiefs imbued with a sleep-inducing scent – symbolizes the lengths people will go to for resistance and protection.

VII.A. The Star of David Necklace

The Star of David necklace is arguably the most prominent symbol in Number the Stars, initially representing Ellen Rosen’s Jewish faith and cultural identity. Before the increased Nazi scrutiny, it was a beautiful, personal item. However, as the threat to Jewish families escalates, the necklace transforms into a dangerous marker, signifying Ellen’s vulnerability and the risk she faces simply by being Jewish.

Annemarie’s act of taking the necklace and wearing it herself is profoundly symbolic. It demonstrates her courage and solidarity with Ellen, and her willingness to share the burden of risk. By wearing the star, Annemarie temporarily assumes Ellen’s identity, highlighting the theme of sacrifice and the blurring of lines between friendship and bravery in the face of oppression.

VII.B. The Sea as a Symbol of Freedom

Throughout Number the Stars, the sea consistently represents freedom and escape from the oppressive Nazi regime. Denmark’s coastal location is crucial, as the sea offers a pathway to neutral Sweden, and ultimately, safety for the Rosen family and others facing persecution. The perilous journey across the water isn’t merely a physical relocation; it embodies a transition from fear and constraint to hope and liberation.

Henrik’s boat, a seemingly ordinary fishing vessel, becomes a vessel of hope, carrying refugees towards a brighter future. The vastness and unpredictability of the sea mirror the uncertainty of their escape, yet it also symbolizes the boundless possibilities that lie beyond Nazi control. The sea’s power and mystery offer a stark contrast to the rigid order imposed by the occupying forces.

VII.C. The Package and its Significance

The mysterious package Annemarie carries is a central symbol in Number the Stars, representing the immense risk and bravery involved in rescuing the Rosen family. Initially appearing innocuous, the package contains handkerchiefs imbued with a potent, concealing scent – a crucial element in evading detection by Nazi soldiers at the checkpoint. This seemingly simple item embodies the elaborate network of resistance and the lengths people went to protect others.

The package’s weight symbolizes the heavy burden of responsibility Annemarie carries, forcing her to mature quickly and confront the dangers of the occupation. It’s a tangible representation of the hope and lives entrusted to her care. The successful delivery of the package signifies not only the Rosen’s immediate safety but also the triumph of courage over fear and oppression.

VIII. Literary Devices

Lois Lowry masterfully employs several literary devices to enhance the emotional impact and thematic resonance of Number the Stars. The novel’s first-person narration, through the eyes of ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen, provides a uniquely innocent and relatable perspective on the unfolding events, allowing readers to experience the fear and uncertainty alongside her. This perspective also subtly underscores the loss of innocence as Annemarie confronts the harsh realities of war.

Furthermore, Lowry utilizes foreshadowing and suspense to build tension throughout the narrative. Hints of danger and the looming threat of discovery create a palpable sense of anxiety, keeping readers engaged and invested in the characters’ fate. These techniques effectively highlight the bravery and resourcefulness required to navigate the perilous circumstances of the Nazi occupation;

VIII.A. Point of View (First-Person Narration)

The narrative choice of first-person narration, centering on Annemarie Johansen, is pivotal to the novel’s impact. Experiencing the events through a ten-year-old’s perspective grants a unique lens, filtering the horrors of the Nazi occupation through a child’s developing understanding. This allows Lowry to convey complex themes – courage, fear, and loss – with both sensitivity and accessibility. We witness the unfolding drama alongside Annemarie, sharing her confusion and gradual comprehension of the risks faced by Ellen and her family.

This perspective also subtly emphasizes the loss of innocence, as Annemarie is forced to confront realities far beyond her years. The limited viewpoint heightens suspense, as readers only know what Annemarie knows, fostering a deeper connection with her journey and the stakes involved.

VIII;B. Foreshadowing and Suspense

Lowry masterfully employs foreshadowing and suspense throughout Number the Stars, creating a palpable sense of dread and anticipation. Early mentions of increased Nazi presence and the Rosen family’s anxieties subtly hint at the looming danger. The seemingly innocuous package, repeatedly referenced, becomes a potent symbol of the risks undertaken and builds suspense as its true contents remain veiled.

The narrative structure itself contributes to the tension; small details and seemingly insignificant conversations later reveal their importance, prompting readers to re-evaluate earlier scenes. This technique keeps the audience engaged and invested in Annemarie’s perilous journey, mirroring her own growing awareness of the escalating threat and the bravery required to resist oppression.

IX. Critical Reception and Legacy

Upon its 1989 publication, Number the Stars garnered widespread critical acclaim, swiftly becoming a staple in middle-grade literature. Praised for its accessible yet powerful portrayal of the Holocaust through a child’s perspective, the novel won the Newbery Medal in 1990, solidifying its place in literary history. Critics lauded Lowry’s sensitive handling of complex themes like courage, friendship, and resistance, noting her ability to convey the gravity of the situation without overwhelming young readers.

The book’s enduring legacy lies in its continued use in educational settings, fostering empathy and understanding of historical events. It remains a powerful reminder of the bravery shown by ordinary people during extraordinary times, inspiring reflection on moral choices and the importance of standing up for what is right.