Number the Stars

What does it mean to be brave? And how can we help one another to be brave?

Number the Stars is a beautiful work of historical fiction set in Denmark during the second world war.

I love historical fiction that comes alive to me. Some time ago, I wrote about ten works of middle-grade historical fiction set in ten different places, and if I had to rewrite the piece, I would add Number the Stars to the list.

Annemarie, who lives with her family in Copenhagen, knows stories about courage, but she is sure that if her bravery is ever tested, she will fall short of the mark. Other people are brave, not she.
In tales about the Resistance and stories about their beloved king, people are brave. Not she.

However, just before the Jewish New Year, the rabbi announces that Jewish homes will be raided. Annemarie’s neighbours, the Rosens, must flee. Young Ellen comes to stay with Annemarie’s family, pretending to be the eldest daughter Lise.
And the soldiers arrive at the door in the middle of the night.

That’s just the first time that Annemarie’s courage is put to the test, but soon, she needs to be brave in many different ways. She learns what bravery is and discovers that maybe, just maybe, she doesn’t fall short.

Number the Stars is a classic tale of loyalty, friendship and persistence, a testament to humanity and compassion.