Number the Stars Literature Guide: A Comprehensive Plan
This guide delves into Lowry’s impactful novel, exploring themes of bravery, friendship, and resistance during WWII Denmark, utilizing historical accounts and literary analysis;
Lois Lowry’s Number the Stars, a Newbery Medal winner, presents a poignant narrative of courage and friendship amidst the darkness of World War II․ The story, set in 1943 Copenhagen, follows young Annemarie Johansen as she assists her Jewish friend, Ellen Rosen, in escaping Nazi persecution․ This guide offers a comprehensive exploration of the novel’s themes, characters, and historical context․ It examines bravery, loyalty, and the loss of innocence, providing insights into Lowry’s masterful storytelling and the enduring legacy of this impactful work․
II․ Author Background: Lois Lowry
Lois Lowry, born in 1937, is a celebrated American author known for her thought-provoking young adult fiction․ Her works often tackle complex themes with sensitivity and nuance․ Before becoming a full-time writer, Lowry worked various jobs, including a photographer and a teacher, experiences that informed her storytelling․ She drew inspiration from her friend Annelise Platt’s childhood experiences in Denmark during WWII for Number the Stars, ensuring historical grounding․ Lowry’s dedication to impactful narratives has cemented her place as a literary icon․
III․ Historical Context: Denmark During WWII
Denmark’s experience during World War II was unique․ Initially, the country attempted to maintain neutrality, but was occupied by Nazi Germany in April 1940․ While under occupation, Denmark enjoyed a degree of autonomy compared to other occupied nations, but Jewish citizens faced increasing persecution․ This period fostered the rise of the Danish Resistance Movement, bravely working to sabotage Nazi efforts and, crucially, rescue Danish Jews, as depicted in Number the Stars․ The historical backdrop is vital to understanding the novel’s themes․
III․A․ The Nazi Occupation of Denmark
The Nazi occupation of Denmark, beginning in April 1940, initially presented a façade of relative calm, with the Danish government continuing to function․ However, this was a calculated strategy by Germany to control resources and maintain order․ Over time, restrictions increased, impacting daily life and foreshadowing the persecution of Danish Jews in 1943․ This occupation created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, compelling many Danes to engage in acts of resistance, subtly or overtly, to protect their freedoms․
III․B․ The Danish Resistance Movement
The Danish Resistance Movement emerged as a crucial force against Nazi occupation, employing diverse tactics – from non-violent protests and sabotage to intelligence gathering and aiding Jewish citizens’ escape․ Ordinary citizens, risking their lives, formed clandestine networks, demonstrating remarkable courage and solidarity․ This resistance wasn’t a unified entity, but a collection of groups, united by a common goal: liberating Denmark․ Their actions, though often subtle, significantly hampered German efforts and ultimately contributed to Denmark’s liberation․
IV․ Plot Summary
The narrative unfolds in Copenhagen during WWII, centering on Annemarie Johansen and her Jewish friend, Ellen Rosen․ As the Nazis intensify their persecution of Jews, Annemarie’s family bravely agrees to shelter Ellen․ They embark on a perilous journey, disguising Ellen as Annemarie’s sister, to evade capture and ultimately escape to neutral Sweden․ The story highlights their courage, the risks undertaken, and the unwavering bonds of friendship amidst the looming threat of war and oppression, showcasing a desperate fight for survival․
IV․A․ Annemarie and Ellen’s Friendship
Annemarie and Ellen share a deeply cherished, seemingly ordinary friendship, built on shared experiences and youthful innocence․ This bond becomes the cornerstone of the narrative as the Nazi occupation threatens to tear them apart․ Their connection transcends religious differences, demonstrating unwavering loyalty and courage in the face of adversity․ Annemarie’s willingness to risk everything for Ellen exemplifies the power of true friendship, becoming a central theme illustrating selfless devotion and bravery․
IV․B․ The Threat of the Nazis and the Rosens
The looming presence of the Nazi regime casts a dark shadow over the story, specifically endangering Ellen and her family due to their Jewish heritage․ The increasing restrictions and the ever-present threat of deportation create a climate of fear and uncertainty․ The Rosens’ vulnerability highlights the brutal reality of persecution during WWII, forcing Annemarie’s family to make difficult choices and engage in acts of resistance to protect their friends from imminent danger and potential tragedy․
IV․C․ The Escape to Sweden
The perilous journey to Sweden represents the culmination of the resistance efforts and a desperate attempt to secure freedom for the Rosens․ Concealed within a fisherman’s boat, amidst a carefully orchestrated plan, Ellen and the others face immense risk․ The sea voyage symbolizes hope and liberation, contrasting sharply with the oppressive atmosphere of Nazi-occupied Denmark․ This daring escape, fraught with tension and uncertainty, underscores the courage and selflessness of those involved in aiding refugees․
V․ Character Analysis
Exploring the core individuals reveals the novel’s thematic depth․ Annemarie’s transformation from a naive girl to a courageous participant in the resistance is central․ Ellen’s experience highlights the fear and uncertainty faced by persecuted Jews․ Peter Neilsen embodies the dedication and risk inherent in the Danish Resistance․ Kirsti, through her youthful innocence, provides a poignant perspective on the unfolding events, showcasing the war’s impact on all ages․
V․A․ Annemarie Johansen: Growth and Bravery
Annemarie’s journey exemplifies a rapid loss of innocence amidst wartime danger․ Initially, she’s a typical child, concerned with school and her sister․ However, circumstances force her to mature quickly, displaying remarkable bravery when aiding Ellen and participating in the risky escape․ Her growth isn’t about grand gestures, but quiet courage and a willingness to overcome fear, ultimately becoming a vital part of the resistance effort․
V․B․ Ellen Rosen: Facing Persecution
Ellen Rosen’s character embodies the vulnerability of Jewish people during the Nazi occupation․ Forced to conceal her identity and leave everything behind, she faces immense fear and uncertainty․ Despite her terror, Ellen displays resilience and trusts Annemarie and her family, demonstrating inner strength․ Her experience highlights the devastating impact of persecution and the courage required to survive under such oppressive circumstances, making her plight deeply affecting;
V․C․ Peter Neilsen: The Resistance Fighter
Peter Neilsen represents the Danish Resistance, risking his life to help others escape Nazi persecution․ As a courier and active participant in the movement, he embodies bravery and dedication․ His quiet determination and commitment to helping the Rosens, despite personal loss – the death of his girlfriend, Lise – showcase his unwavering moral compass․ Peter’s character exemplifies the courage and selflessness of those who fought against oppression during WWII․
V․D․ Kirsti Johansen: Innocence and Perspective
Kirsti, Annemarie’s younger sister, provides a crucial perspective through her childlike innocence․ While unaware of the full danger, her questions and observations highlight the disruption caused by the Nazi occupation․ Kirsti’s naiveté contrasts sharply with the adults’ anxieties, emphasizing the loss of innocence experienced during wartime․ She represents the vulnerability of children and the importance of protecting them from the harsh realities of conflict, offering a poignant counterpoint․
VI․ Major Themes
Number the Stars powerfully explores universal themes of bravery and courage amidst adversity, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit․ The novel deeply examines the enduring power of friendship and unwavering loyalty, exemplified by Annemarie and Ellen’s bond․ Family’s importance as a source of strength and protection is central, alongside the heartbreaking loss of innocence as characters confront the realities of war․ These interwoven themes create a compelling narrative about hope and resistance․
VI․A․ Bravery and Courage in the Face of Adversity
Bravery isn’t solely depicted through grand gestures; Number the Stars showcases courage in everyday acts of defiance and selflessness․ Annemarie’s journey embodies this, evolving from a child to someone willing to risk everything for her friend․ The Danish Resistance demonstrates collective bravery, actively opposing Nazi occupation․ Even small acts, like hiding the Rosen family, represent profound courage․ Lowry highlights that bravery isn’t the absence of fear, but acting despite it, a vital message throughout the novel․
VI․B․ The Power of Friendship and Loyalty
The unwavering bond between Annemarie and Ellen forms the emotional core of Number the Stars․ Their friendship transcends religious differences, demonstrating loyalty in the face of immense danger․ This loyalty fuels Annemarie’s bravery and willingness to participate in the escape plan․ The novel emphasizes that true friendship demands sacrifice and unwavering support․ Furthermore, loyalty extends to family and the broader community, exemplified by the Johansens’ commitment to protecting the Rosens, showcasing solidarity․
VI․C․ The Importance of Family
Family provides a crucial foundation of love, support, and courage throughout Number the Stars․ The Johansens demonstrate unwavering dedication to one another and extend that care to the Rosens, risking everything for their safety․ Annemarie’s parents exemplify bravery and resourcefulness, protecting their children and friends․ Kirsti, though young, represents the innocence family strives to preserve․ The novel highlights how familial bonds strengthen resolve and offer solace during times of adversity, proving family is paramount․
VI․D․ Loss of Innocence and Growing Up
Annemarie’s journey embodies the painful yet necessary loss of childhood innocence amidst the harsh realities of war․ Initially sheltered, she’s forced to confront danger and understand the gravity of the Nazi occupation․ Her perspective shifts as she participates in the resistance, accepting responsibility and demonstrating bravery․ Lowry uses WWII as a backdrop to amplify these universal growing pains, showcasing Annemarie’s maturation and the difficult transition from childhood naiveté to a more complex understanding of the world․
VII․ Symbolism
Lowry masterfully employs symbolism to enrich the narrative․ The Star of David necklace represents Ellen’s Jewish identity and the danger she faces, becoming a potent symbol of persecution․ The packet, with its almond scent, foreshadows danger and signifies the risks undertaken by the resistance․ Crucially, the sea symbolizes freedom and escape, representing the hope for a new life in Sweden, away from Nazi control․ These symbols deepen the novel’s thematic resonance and emotional impact, adding layers of meaning․
VII․A․ The Star of David Necklace
The Star of David necklace is a profoundly significant symbol․ Initially a cherished possession representing Ellen’s Jewish faith and heritage, it quickly transforms into a dangerous marker during the Nazi occupation․ Concealing it becomes vital for Ellen’s safety, highlighting the persecution faced by Jewish people․ The necklace embodies identity, faith, and the constant threat looming over Ellen, forcing her to hide a core part of herself to survive, powerfully illustrating the novel’s central conflicts․
VII․B․ The Packet and the Smell of Almonds
The mysterious packet, imbued with the scent of almonds, serves as a crucial element in the Rosen’s escape plan․ This seemingly innocuous item conceals a vital substance intended to mask the scent of the Jewish refugees from Nazi detection dogs․ The almond smell, initially unsettling, becomes a symbol of hope and ingenuity․ It represents the Danish Resistance’s cleverness and willingness to risk everything, highlighting their dedication to protecting their Jewish neighbors from persecution and certain danger․
VII․C․ The Sea as a Symbol of Freedom
The sea consistently embodies freedom and escape throughout Number the Stars․ It represents the perilous journey to neutral Sweden, offering a pathway away from Nazi oppression and towards safety․ The vastness of the sea mirrors the uncertainty and risk involved in the escape, yet simultaneously signifies hope and a new beginning․ For Annemarie and Ellen, the sea isn’t merely a geographical location, but a powerful symbol of liberation and the possibility of a life free from fear and persecution․
VIII․ Literary Devices
Lowry masterfully employs several literary devices to enhance the narrative’s impact․ Foreshadowing builds suspense, hinting at dangers to come, while the point of view, narrated through young Annemarie, provides a child’s innocent yet perceptive lens on complex events․ This narrative choice allows readers to experience the unfolding drama with a sense of immediacy and vulnerability․ These techniques effectively convey the story’s themes of bravery, friendship, and the horrors of war, deepening the reader’s emotional connection․
VIII․A․ Foreshadowing and Suspense
Throughout Number the Stars, Lois Lowry skillfully utilizes foreshadowing to create a palpable sense of suspense․ Early mentions of increased Nazi presence and unsettling encounters subtly hint at the escalating danger faced by the characters․ The seemingly innocuous “packet” and the mysterious smell of almonds foreshadow critical plot points, building tension․ This technique isn’t overt, but rather a series of carefully placed clues that keep readers engaged and anticipating the challenges Annemarie and Ellen will confront․
VIII․B․ Point of View and Narrative Voice
Number the Stars is narrated through the limited third-person point of view, primarily focusing on Annemarie Johansen’s perspective․ This choice allows readers to experience the events unfolding through the eyes of a young girl, fostering empathy and highlighting the loss of innocence․ Lowry’s narrative voice is simple yet evocative, mirroring Annemarie’s age and understanding․ This intimate perspective effectively conveys the fear and uncertainty of wartime Denmark, while maintaining a sense of hope and resilience․
IX․ Key Quotes and Analysis
Significant quotes illuminate the novel’s core themes․ For bravery, consider moments showcasing Annemarie’s courage amidst danger․ Quotes highlighting friendship emphasize the unwavering bond between Annemarie and Ellen, a beacon of hope during persecution․ Analyzing these passages reveals Lowry’s skillful portrayal of resilience and loyalty․ The narrative powerfully demonstrates how ordinary individuals exhibit extraordinary courage in the face of adversity, solidifying the book’s enduring message of solidarity and resistance․
IX․A․ Quotes Illustrating Bravery
Annemarie’s actions exemplify courage throughout the story․ Consider her willingness to run with the packet, despite her fear, showcasing remarkable bravery․ Her determination to protect Ellen, even at personal risk, highlights her selfless nature․ These instances demonstrate a growing maturity and resilience․ Lowry masterfully portrays bravery not as the absence of fear, but as acting despite it, solidifying Annemarie’s character arc and the novel’s central message of resistance․
IX․B․ Quotes Highlighting Friendship
The bond between Annemarie and Ellen is central to the narrative, demonstrating unwavering loyalty․ Their shared experiences, even before the threat of the Nazis, establish a deep connection․ Ellen’s reliance on Annemarie, and Annemarie’s willingness to risk everything for her friend, exemplify true friendship․ Lowry emphasizes that friendship transcends differences, offering solace and strength during times of adversity, ultimately showcasing the power of human connection in the face of danger․
X․ Discussion Questions
Consider Annemarie’s evolving bravery throughout the novel; how does her understanding of courage change? Explore the significance of the Rosen family’s situation – what does their story reveal about prejudice and persecution? Analyze Peter’s role in the resistance; what motivates his actions and sacrifices? Discuss the symbolism of the sea and the star necklace․ How does Lowry use foreshadowing to build suspense, and what is the novel’s lasting message about friendship and resilience?
XI; Connections to Real-World Events
Number the Stars draws heavily from the true story of the Danish Resistance’s efforts to save Jewish citizens during WWII․ Research the actual rescue operation involving Danish fishermen transporting Jews to Sweden․ Explore the historical context of Nazi occupation in Denmark and the consequences faced by those who aided persecuted communities․ Discuss parallels between this historical event and other instances of resistance against oppression throughout history, fostering a deeper understanding of courage and solidarity․
XII․ Further Reading and Resources
To expand understanding, explore resources detailing the Danish Resistance and WWII history․ Consider Anne Frank’s diary for a parallel perspective on persecution․ Websites like the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum offer invaluable information․ Course Hero and SparkNotes provide supplementary analyses of Number the Stars․ Encourage students to research Annelise Platt, Lowry’s friend whose experiences inspired the novel, enriching their comprehension of the story’s roots in reality․
XIII․ Privilege, Sacrifice, and Solidarity
The novel powerfully illustrates the Johansens’ privilege, enabling them to risk everything for the Rosens․ This highlights the moral imperative of solidarity with the persecuted․ Peter’s unwavering commitment, even after Lise’s death, embodies selfless sacrifice․ Number the Stars demonstrates how ordinary people can exhibit extraordinary courage, challenging readers to consider their own roles in fostering justice and confronting injustice, even amidst immense danger․
XIV; Hiding of People and Facts
Deception is central to the narrative, as Annemarie’s family and the Danish Resistance conceal Ellen and crucial information from the Nazis․ This theme explores the ethical complexities of lying for a greater good․ The skillful concealment of Ellen’s identity, and the fabricated stories, underscore the desperate measures taken to protect Jewish friends․ Number the Stars reveals how silence and hidden truths become powerful tools in resisting oppression․
XV․ The Theme of Growing Up
Annemarie’s journey embodies the loss of innocence amidst wartime realities․ Lowry utilizes the backdrop of WWII to amplify the universal challenges of adolescence․ The novel charts Annemarie’s transition from childhood naiveté to courageous responsibility, forced to confront danger and make difficult choices․ Number the Stars demonstrates how extraordinary circumstances accelerate maturity, revealing inner strength and resilience as she navigates a world irrevocably changed by conflict․
XVI․ Historical Accuracy and Fictionalization
Lois Lowry masterfully blends historical events with fictional narrative in Number the Stars․ The novel draws heavily from real accounts, notably her friend Annelise Platt’s experiences in WWII Denmark, grounding the story in authenticity․ However, Lowry employs fictional characters and plot elements to enhance thematic resonance and emotional impact․ This skillful combination allows readers to connect with the historical context while experiencing a compelling, character-driven story of courage and resistance․
XVII․ The Role of Women in the Resistance
While often overshadowed, women played crucial roles in the Danish Resistance, a facet subtly yet powerfully depicted in Number the Stars․ Annemarie’s bravery, alongside the quiet courage of her mother and other women, demonstrates their vital contributions․ These characters actively participate in the dangerous work of aiding Jewish refugees, showcasing resilience and resourcefulness․ Lowry highlights that resistance wasn’t solely a masculine endeavor, acknowledging the significant, often unseen, efforts of women during wartime․
XVIII․ The Significance of Setting: Copenhagen and the Coast
Copenhagen, initially presented as a familiar, safe haven, gradually transforms under Nazi occupation, heightening the story’s tension․ The city’s recognizable streets and everyday life contrast sharply with the growing danger․ The Danish coastline becomes symbolic of escape and freedom, representing the perilous journey to Sweden․ This geographical shift mirrors Annemarie’s evolving understanding of the war’s impact, emphasizing the vulnerability and hope intertwined within the setting itself․
XIX․ Analyzing Peter’s Character and Motivation
Peter Neilsen embodies quiet courage and dedication to the Danish Resistance․ Driven by grief over Annelise’s death, he channels his pain into active resistance, risking his life repeatedly․ His commitment to helping the Rosens highlights his strong moral compass and unwavering loyalty․ Peter’s reserved nature masks a deep well of bravery, making him a crucial, yet understated, figure in Annemarie’s journey and the larger narrative of resistance against oppression․
XX․ Exploring the Theme of Deception and its Morality
Deception is central to the novel’s plot, employed as a vital survival tactic against the Nazi threat․ Lowry presents this theme with nuance, questioning the morality of lying when it safeguards innocent lives․ Annemarie’s participation in the deception, and the broader resistance’s reliance on it, forces readers to consider the ethical complexities of wartime․ The novel suggests that, in extreme circumstances, deception can be a courageous and justifiable act of resistance․
XXI․ The Impact of War on Children
Number the Stars powerfully illustrates the devastating impact of war on children, specifically through Annemarie and Kirsti․ Annemarie’s forced maturity and exposure to danger represent a loss of innocence․ Kirsti, though younger, experiences fear and disruption․ Lowry highlights how war shatters childhood normalcy, forcing children to confront adult realities of persecution and risk․ The novel underscores the lasting psychological effects of trauma and the resilience required to cope with such experiences․
XXII․ Comparing and Contrasting Annemarie and Ellen
Annemarie and Ellen, despite their close friendship, represent contrasting experiences during wartime․ Annemarie, a Christian, possesses a degree of privilege and safety Ellen, as a Jewish girl, faces imminent danger and persecution․ Both demonstrate bravery, but Annemarie’s is reactive, while Ellen’s is enduring․ Their friendship highlights the importance of solidarity and the shared humanity that transcends religious differences, even amidst profound adversity and fear for their futures․
XXIII․ The Ending and its Implications
The novel’s conclusion, with the Rosen family’s successful escape to Sweden, offers a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness of war․ However, it’s tempered by the knowledge of continued suffering for others․ Annemarie’s discovery of Lise’s involvement in the Resistance and Peter’s enduring grief adds layers of complexity․ The ending emphasizes the lasting impact of trauma and sacrifice, while subtly suggesting the ongoing need for courage and compassion in a world still marked by conflict․
XXIV․ Critical Reception and Legacy of the Novel
“Number the Stars” garnered widespread acclaim upon its 1989 publication, winning the Newbery Medal․ Critics lauded Lowry’s sensitive portrayal of a difficult historical period and her ability to convey complex themes through a child’s perspective․ The novel’s enduring legacy lies in its accessibility, making the Holocaust understandable for young readers․ It remains a staple in school curricula, fostering empathy and prompting discussions about bravery, friendship, and the importance of standing up against injustice․
