72 pages 2 hours read

Lois Lowry

Number the Stars

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1989

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

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.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Number the Stars?

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.

RecommendedReading Age

9-12years

Lexile Level

670L

Book Details

Genre

Children's Literature

Education

Historical Fiction

Themes

Values/Ideas: Safety & Danger

Values/Ideas: Good & Evil

Topics

Education

History: World

Period

WWII / World War II