Number the Stars by Lois Lowry follows the experiences of Annemarie Johansen, a 10-year-old Danish girl in Nazi-occupied Copenhagen during World War II, as she and her family help their Jewish friends, the Rosens, evade capture and escape to Sweden. This novel addresses wartime realities and the Holocaust.

Lois Lowry's Number the Stars is celebrated for its engaging narrative and historical accuracy, making complex themes accessible to younger readers. Admirers appreciate its emotional depth and strong character development. Criticisms include predictable plot points and simplified portrayals of historical events. Overall, it is praised as a compelling introduction to historical fiction for middle-grade readers.

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry appeals to middle-grade readers who enjoy historical fiction, especially those interested in World War II. This audience often appreciates stories of courage, friendship, and resilience, much like fans of The Diary of Anne Frank or The Boy in the Striped Pajamas.

Suspenseful / Inspirational / Heartwarming / Challenging / Mysterious

- Number the Stars won the Newbery Medal in 1990, which is awarded annually to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children.
- Lois Lowry was inspired to write Number the Stars by her childhood friend Annelise, who shared stories about her experiences in Denmark during World War II.
- The title Number the Stars is a reference to a line from the Bible, Psalm 147:4, emphasizing the themes of hope and faith present throughout the book.

**Annemarie Johansen**  
Annemarie is the ten-year-old protagonist of the story. Talented in running and storytelling, she navigates the challenges of life in occupied Copenhagen during World War II. Annemarie is insightful and courageous, taking action to protect her best friend, Ellen Rosen, and her family.

**Ellen Rosen**  
Ellen is Annemarie’s best friend, also ten years old. She is a talented actress, a skill she uses to impersonate the Johansens' deceased daughter, Lise, while hiding from the Nazis. As a Jewish girl, Ellen's experiences highlight the dangers faced by Jewish families during the war.

**Mama (Inge Johansen) and Papa**  
Annemarie's parents, who live in Copenhagen with their daughters. They are brave and quick-thinking, taking Ellen in to protect her from the Nazis. Their actions show strong support for their Jewish friends and the Resistance.

**Kirsti Johansen**  
Annemarie’s five-year-old sister, who has a vivid imagination and struggles to understand the limitations caused by the war. Kirsti's questions and comments provide insight into the daily life and historical context of the novel.

**Peter Neilson**  
Peter is the fiancé of the Johansens' deceased daughter, Lise, and a member of the Resistance. He is serious and dedicated, risking his life to aid Jewish families escaping to Sweden.

Lois Lowry

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Chapters 1-3

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Chapters 4-6

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Chapters 7-10

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Chapters 11-13

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Chapters 14-17

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