Lowry, Lois. (1990). Number the Stars. New York: Bantam Double Day Dell Publishing Group, Inc. 137 pp.
Grade Range: Grades 5-8
Genre: historical fiction
Summary and Critique
- In 1943 Denmark, the Nazis began "relocating" the Jewish citizens
to concentration camps. Annemarie Johannesen and her family allow her best
friend, Ellen Rosen, to live with them until they can help her escape to
Sweden; however, Annemarie must jeopardize her safety and risk her own
life in order to save Ellen's life. In this Newbery Award winner, Lowry
addresses the themes of helping those in need and of not judging others.
This historical fiction is a wonderful account of how the Danish people
saved many of their Jewish citizens from the concentration camps. It is
also an amazing story about how a ten-year old girl, Annemarie, can have
courage and make a difference in the lives of many.
Number the Stars is historical fiction based on one of Lois Lowry's (Danish)
friend's true account of the German occupation of Denmark. It is praised for (1) its ability to express to younger readers the seriousness of the Holocaust without including the horror and the tragedy, (2) its attention to many historical details, and (3) the meaningful friendship that Annemarie and Ellen share.
- Newbery Award Winner, 1990
School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
American Bookseller Pick of the Lists
American Library Association Notable Book
National Jewish Book Award
Sidney Taylor Award
- The Holocaust
The Individual vs. Society
War and Peace
Adventure
Race, Ethnicity, and Culture
Families
Friends and Enemies
Challenges and Triumphs
- Born in 1937, Lowry lived in various places nationally and abroad
because her father was in the military. She attended Brown University,
but graduated from the University of Southern Maine. She has received
two Newbery Medals: one for Number the Stars and one for The Giver.
- For more information on Lois Lowry:
http://www.scils.rutgers.edu/special/kay/lowry.html
http://www.loislowry.com Web site offers information about Lois Lowry. (e.g., biographical information, book titles, speeches, and FAQ's)
