Number the Stars — Content Guide for Parents
Themes present
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Religious themes
PRESENTContains references to prayer and church attendance. A minister character plays a supporting role in two chapters.
About this book
This 25th anniversary edition celebrates a true milestone for this Newbery Medal-winning classic with a fresh new look and an introduction by Lois Lowry. This time-honored story champions a young girl's bravery and good will in helping her best friend survive in a very unwelcoming, war-torn world.
As the German troops begin their campaign to "relocate" all the Jews of Denmark, Annemarie Johansen's family takes in Annemarie's best friend, Ellen Rosen, and conceals her as part of the family.
Through the eyes of ten-year-old Annemarie, we watch as the Danish Resistance smuggles almost the entire Jewish population of Denmark, nearly seven thousand people, across the sea to Sweden. The heroism of an entire nation reminds us that there was pride and human decency in the world even during a time of terror and war.
Frequently asked questions
Is Number the Stars appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The narrative includes tense moments involving Nazi soldiers and the threat of violence against the Jewish characters. There are scenes where children encounter soldiers, and the story discusses the dangers faced by those hiding from the Nazis. The book features frightening encounters with German soldiers, which create a tense atmosphere. The protagonist experiences fear and danger, particularly during moments of hiding and evading capture.
Does Number the Stars have violence?
The narrative includes tense moments involving Nazi soldiers and the threat of violence against the Jewish characters. There are scenes where children encounter soldiers, and the story discusses the dangers faced by those hiding from the Nazis.
Does Number the Stars have scary content?
The book features frightening encounters with German soldiers, which create a tense atmosphere. The protagonist experiences fear and danger, particularly during moments of hiding and evading capture.
Does Number the Stars have religious themes?
The book includes elements of Christian and Jewish religion, particularly in the context of the Danish community's efforts to protect their Jewish neighbors during the Nazi occupation. The main character, Annemarie, is depicted as a Lutheran, and Jewish holidays are mentioned reverently.
Does Number the Stars have racial/cultural content?
While the book addresses the persecution of Jewish people during the Holocaust, it does not explicitly discuss race as a central theme. The focus is on the historical context of World War II rather than modern racial dynamics.
Does Number the Stars have profanity?
The book contains one instance of profanity that could be construed as a prayer. However, it is not a significant aspect of the narrative.
Does Number the Stars have climate change?
There are no themes related to climate activism or environmentalism in 'Number the Stars'. The story is focused on historical events during World War II.
Does Number the Stars have sexual identity?
There is no sexual content in 'Number the Stars'. The narrative focuses on the historical context of World War II and the experiences of children during that time.
Does Number the Stars have gender roles?
The book features a strong female protagonist, Annemarie, who takes on a courageous role in protecting her friend. However, it does not actively discuss or critique gender roles as a central theme.
Does Number the Stars have lgbtq+ themes?
No LGBTQ+ themes or characters are present in the book 'Number the Stars'. The search results do not provide any content related to LGBTQ+ representation within the narrative.
