“Number the Stars” by Lois Lowry is a historical fiction novel that has captivated readers for decades. Set against the backdrop of World War II, this poignant tale explores themes of bravery, friendship, and the harsh realities of life under Nazi occupation. Through the eyes of ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen, Lowry brings to life the courage and sacrifices of ordinary people during extraordinary times. As Annemarie navigates the dangerous landscape of wartime Denmark, readers are drawn into a story of resilience, moral dilemmas, and the power of human kindness.

As a work of historical fiction, “Number the Stars” vividly portrays the challenges faced by those living under Nazi rule, particularly the Jewish community. The book delves into themes of bravery, the innocence of childhood, and the moral complexities of war. Central to the narrative is the theme of identity—how it can be hidden, altered, or reclaimed—and the profound impact of fear and hope in the face of tyranny. The novel also emphasizes the importance of friendship and family, highlighting the ways in which these bonds are tested and strengthened in times of crisis.

The story begins in 1943, in Nazi-occupied Copenhagen, Denmark. Annemarie Johansen, her younger sister Kirsti, and their best friend Ellen Rosen are introduced as they navigate their daily lives under the constant shadow of the German soldiers patrolling their streets. The atmosphere in Copenhagen is tense, with the omnipresence of soldiers and the scarcity of food and supplies. Despite the fear that permeates their lives, Annemarie and Ellen maintain their friendship, finding solace in their shared experiences and the support of their families.

One of the first significant events in the novel occurs when Annemarie and Ellen are stopped by soldiers while running an errand. The soldiers’ questioning highlights the constant danger faced by the residents of Copenhagen, particularly the Jewish population. Annemarie’s quick thinking and composed demeanor during this encounter foreshadow her growing role in the resistance efforts to come.

As the Nazi persecution of Jews intensifies, Ellen’s family is forced to make difficult decisions. The Rosens, like many other Jewish families, are targeted by the Nazis, who intend to deport them to concentration camps. Ellen’s parents decide to go into hiding, leaving Ellen in the care of the Johansens, who courageously agree to protect her. This act of defiance against the Nazi regime marks a turning point in the story, as the Johansens are now directly involved in the resistance.

To protect Ellen, the Johansens concoct a story that she is Annemarie’s deceased sister, Lise. This deception is put to the test when German soldiers raid the Johansen home in the middle of the night, searching for hidden Jews. The tension in this scene is palpable as the soldiers scrutinize Ellen, questioning her identity. Annemarie’s father’s quick wit and Ellen’s presence of mind save her from being discovered, showcasing the constant peril they are under.

With the situation in Copenhagen growing increasingly dangerous, the Johansens decide to take Ellen to their Uncle Henrik’s home in Gilleleje, a small fishing village on the coast. Uncle Henrik is involved in the Danish resistance, helping Jewish families escape to neutral Sweden. The journey to Gilleleje is fraught with tension, as Annemarie, Ellen, and Kirsti must navigate checkpoints and avoid drawing attention to themselves. The countryside, though seemingly serene, is filled with hidden dangers, and the girls must rely on their wits and courage to reach safety.

At Uncle Henrik’s house, Annemarie begins to understand the gravity of the situation. She overhears conversations between her mother and Uncle Henrik about a funeral for a nonexistent Great-aunt Birte, a cover story intended to gather resistance members without arousing suspicion. The use of such coded language and covert operations illustrates the ingenuity and bravery of the Danish resistance.

The climax of the novel occurs during the night of Ellen’s escape to Sweden. Uncle Henrik and the resistance have arranged for a group of Jews, including Ellen and her family, to be smuggled across the sea to freedom. Annemarie plays a crucial role in this operation, demonstrating her bravery and quick thinking. When her mother is injured on her way back from helping the Jews board the boat, Annemarie is entrusted with delivering a crucial package to Uncle Henrik. Unaware of its contents, but understanding its importance, Annemarie sets off on a dangerous journey through the woods.

One of the most suspenseful moments in the novel occurs when Annemarie is stopped by German soldiers while carrying the package. In a display of remarkable composure, Annemarie adopts the persona of a naïve little girl, using her innocence to distract the soldiers and prevent them from discovering the package. The package, it turns out, contains a handkerchief treated with a special chemical to prevent the soldiers’ dogs from detecting the hidden Jews. This moment is a testament to Annemarie’s growth and her ability to act courageously under pressure.

The novel concludes with the end of the war and the return to a semblance of normalcy in Denmark. Annemarie’s journey from innocence to bravery is complete, and she reflects on the events that transpired with a deeper understanding of the world around her. The Johansen family, though forever changed by the war, begins to rebuild their lives. The war has left scars, but it has also revealed the strength of the human spirit and the power of compassion and solidarity.

Annemarie learns that the Star of David necklace she had hidden to protect Ellen has become a symbol of her own bravery. In one of the most poignant moments of the novel, Annemarie decides to wear the necklace until she can return it to Ellen, symbolizing her hope for the future and her commitment to the values of friendship and courage that have guided her throughout the story.

“Number the Stars” ends on a note of reflection, as Annemarie contemplates the meaning of bravery and the sacrifices made by so many during the war. The novel’s title, derived from Psalm 147:4, “He numbers the stars and calls them all by name,” serves as a reminder of the countless lives touched by the war and the enduring hope that shines even in the darkest of times. Lois Lowry uses Annemarie’s story to highlight the quiet, everyday acts of heroism that often go unnoticed but are no less significant than the grand gestures of war heroes.

“Number the Stars” by Lois Lowry is more than just a historical fiction novel; it is a powerful exploration of the human spirit and the capacity for kindness and bravery in the face of overwhelming adversity. Through the character of Annemarie Johansen, readers are invited to reflect on the nature of courage, the importance of friendship, and the moral complexities of war. The novel’s historical accuracy, combined with its emotional depth, makes it a timeless read for audiences of all ages.

The book has been widely praised for its sensitive portrayal of a difficult period in history, and it continues to be a valuable resource for teaching young readers about the Holocaust and World War II. Its themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the power of love resonate with readers long after the final page is turned, making “Number the Stars” a lasting contribution to children’s literature and a profound reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.