Number the Stars

Number the Stars - Louis Lowry
Dell Publishing - 1989

Reading Level: 8+  Number of Pages: 132 Genre: Fiction

Summary: Annemarie Johansen lives in Copenhagen, Denmark, and is best friends with Ellen Rosen, a Jewish girl. Annemarie develops a fear of Nazi soldiers after being stopped and questioned by one of them. She discovers that the Nazis are after all the Jews, and is afraid for her friend, who marks her Jewish belief by wearing a small Star of David. Her older brother is involved with a resistance movement, and helps the family escape by leading them into the hull of a ship. Annemarie is able to help her friend by concealing a substance in a napkin which ruined the sense of smell of the police dogs, thereby allowing the family to remain concealed. 

    

"Halte!' the soldier ordered in a stern voice.The German word was as familiar as it was frightening. Annemarie had heard it often enough before, but it had never been directed at her until now."

My Impressions: This is a fantastic and realistic story told from the perspective of two young girls who really didn't understand it much. The story becomes real, and helps children understand a lot about trust and not discriminating based on religion.

Parent's Guide: The story could be a little scary for some kids.

Recommendations: A definite read. Strongly recommend.