Number the Stars

The Power of Friendship

The core of the novel revolves around the deep bond between Annemarie Johansen and her Jewish friend, Ellen Rosen. Their friendship is tested as the Nazi threat intensifies in Copenhagen. Annemarie's loyalty and love for Ellen drive her to make courageous decisions, highlighting the importance of standing by friends during times of adversity. The girls' shared experiences, from schoolyard games to facing life-threatening situations, underscore the strength and resilience of their connection. This theme emphasizes the power of friendship to overcome prejudice and fear, showcasing how personal relationships can inspire acts of bravery and selflessness.

Finding Courage in Unexpected Places

Bravery is demonstrated not only through grand, heroic gestures but also through small, everyday acts of courage. Annemarie, initially portrayed as an ordinary girl, discovers her inner strength as she confronts the dangers of Nazi-occupied Denmark. Her bravery evolves as she navigates increasingly perilous situations, from standing up to soldiers to carrying a crucial package to her uncle's boat. The novel illustrates that courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act despite it. This theme inspires readers to recognize their own potential for bravery in the face of injustice and adversity.

The Morality of Deception

Deception and lies are employed as tools for survival, protecting Jewish citizens from Nazi persecution. The Johansen family and others involved in the Resistance deliberately mislead the German soldiers to safeguard Ellen and other Jewish refugees. While lying is generally discouraged, the novel presents a moral dilemma where deception becomes necessary to protect innocent lives. This theme explores the complexities of morality during wartime, questioning the absolute nature of truth and highlighting the ethical considerations of resistance. It prompts readers to consider the circumstances in which deception might be justified for the greater good.

Empathy as Resistance

The story underscores the importance of empathy and compassion in the face of oppression. The Danish people's willingness to risk their lives to protect their Jewish neighbors exemplifies the power of human kindness. Characters like the Johansens demonstrate empathy by understanding and sharing the feelings of those targeted by the Nazis. The novel contrasts this empathy with the Nazis' prejudice and hatred, highlighting the destructive consequences of intolerance. This theme encourages readers to cultivate empathy, promoting understanding and support for marginalized communities.

The Loss of Innocence and Accelerated Growth

Number the Stars illuminates the theme of growing up, especially under the pressures of war. Annemarie's journey is not just one of bravery but also of accelerated maturity. She transitions from a carefree child to a responsible and courageous young woman who understands the gravity of the situation around her. The war forces her to confront difficult realities and make life-altering decisions, shaping her character and worldview. This theme explores how external circumstances can influence personal development, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of youth in times of crisis.

The Strength of Collective Resistance

The Danish Resistance plays a vital role in the novel, showcasing collective action against Nazi oppression. Ordinary citizens band together to smuggle Jewish people to safety in Sweden, demonstrating the power of unity and solidarity. The Resistance's efforts, though often covert and dangerous, highlight the importance of organized opposition to injustice. This theme celebrates the courage and selflessness of those who risked their lives to protect others, inspiring readers to recognize the potential for collective action in combating oppression and promoting human rights.

The Importance of Family

The novel explores themes of family, focusing on the bonds that sustain individuals during times of crisis. The Johansen family's love and support for one another provide a foundation for their courageous actions. They risk their own safety to protect Ellen, demonstrating the depth of their commitment to family values. The story also shows how families can extend beyond blood relations to include close friends, as the Johansens embrace Ellen as one of their own. This theme underscores the importance of familial support and the power of love to overcome adversity.