Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
Reviewed by: Jimi Roberts, Circulation Assistant
Genre: Historical Fiction
Suggested Age: Teens
What is the book about?: This book takes place during the Nazi occupation of Denmark in September and early October 1943. The Nazis are just about to round up all the Jews in Denmark when the resistance hatches a plan to smuggle as many as they can across the sea into Sweden where the Nazis are not in control. We take a unique journey through the eyes of a 10 year old girl who is forced to grow up very quickly and determine what she is capable of in the face of imminent danger to herself and her loved ones.
My review: I read this book for the first time when I was 10 years old and it blew my mind. It showed me how powerful literature can be and was the first book I ever remember reading and truly enjoying. It was a gateway book, of sorts, to all of the wonderful stories I have enjoyed since. I anxiously and excitedly reread the story 24 years later because I wanted to include it in FDL: Reads on the chance that someone who has never experienced it before might be inclined to pick it up. Its every bit as good as I remember – perhaps even better. There are twists and turns throughout the story and we watch the world transition from what it appears to be into what it really is and what is really going on from the perspective of a young girl. We watch 10-year-old Annemarie Johannesen grow up in a matter of a few days and transition from being a naive child to risking her life to help her friends and loved ones. It is fascinating to read about the impact that a few brave people can have on the lives of others. That concept is just as compelling for adults as it is for children and teens, and is applicable to many everyday situations beyond major events like the Nazi occupation of Denmark. I would encourage anyone of any age to pick up this book and spend a couple hours enjoying this masterpiece.
Rating: 5/5
About FDL Reads
Welcome to FDL Reads, weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library. Librarians (and possibly some other guest reviewers) review all types of books, from children’s picture books, young adult favorites, to the latest adult thriller, and share their thoughts each week at fondulaclibrary.org. If the book is owned by Fondulac District Library (or another local library), you’ll see a direct link to the catalog entry and whether or not it is available. If it is checked out or at another local library, you will be able to place a hold as long as you have your library card and PIN numbers. As with any book review, these are our opinions…we disagree amongst ourselves about books frequently. We all have different likes and dislikes, which is what makes the world an interesting place. Please enjoy, and keep on reading!