Number the Stars Synopsis and Critique

Number the Stars. ISBN 0395510600. Lowis Lowry. 1989. Newbery Medal. Ages 9-12. Danish Jewish & Caucasians.

Synopsis
Number the Stars is about the strong bond between two young friends and the trials they must both overcome during World War II in Nazi-occupied Denmark.  Annemarie and Ellen are best friends who live in the same apartment building.  In order to save her friend from being taken away like the other Danish Jews, Annemarie's family pretends Ellen is their daughter as well, and head out to the country with her uncle to hide from the Nazis.  Her uncle is actually helping Jews escape by hiding them in his boat and taking them across the water to Sweden.  When they all leave to go hide on the boat, an important part of making their plan successful is left behind and Annemarie must become brave in order to save her friends from harm.  In the end, she is successful and pertinent to her friend's safety and when the war is over she joyously awaits Ellen's return.


Critique
This book is a great book for younger readers.  It's great because it will teach students about World War II and the extermination of the Jews, while also being easy to read and understand.  It would be a great book to use to coincide with a Social Studies unit on World War II.  It would also bring up great discussions on the Holocaust and what students think about what happened.

The characters, plot and climax are all well-developed for this reading level.  Yet, it's still suitable for adults.  The two young girls, Annemarie and Ellen, are easy to relate to and the bond between them many students might find similar to their friendships.  Also, their relationship would help teach students what good friendships are and how to be a good friend to others.

The story progresses nicely and smoothly.  As adult it feels a little rushed, however to keep a younger reader engaged not as much detail and events need to be written about.  As already mentioned, the writing works well for this reading level.  Lowry establishes the relationships early on and gives the reader enough to understand their connection.  She also adds a little mystery with the part about Annemarie's older sister, which is gladly cleared up in the end.

Overall, I would most likely use this book for 5th or 6th graders, and possibly 7th graders.  I think it would even be appropriate as a read aloud for 4th graders.  I would have my students discuss and examine:

• World War II
• The Holocaust
• Religious Differences
• Friendship
• Bravery