Tuesday, March 3, 2009

True Bravery

picture from amazon.com

Number the Stars
by Lois Lowry
published by Dell Publishing, NY, 1989
Summary: A story of bravery, friendship, and family in Denmark during World War II.

Strengths: This very moving novel provides insight into the life of Danish citizens when the Nazis invaded. Readers can relate to the young girl, Annemarie, as she learns more about the problems Ellen, her friend who is Jewish, faces. The story is written in a captivating way that makes the reader want to continue reading. Re-reading this book after a visit to Denmark and Sweden provided me with a different perspective on the landscape as Lowry exquisitely describes it. Lowry provides insight into a lesser-known region affected by the Holocaust and shares stories of the courageous and compassionate people.


Concerns: The story has a sad overtone, as should any book taking place in the Holocaust.


Classroom Use/Other Comments: Children aged 10 and up can relate to the characters in this book. This book would be an excellent tie-in to a social studies unit on the Holocaust.

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