Number the Stars is generally a wholesome and meaningful historical novel, but there are a few elements parents, especially those guiding sensitive readers, may want to be aware of. We’ve outlined them for you to make the best decision for your family. Because the story is set during World War II and involves the Nazi occupation of Denmark, there are references to danger, persecution, and death. While nothing is graphically described, readers will encounter the reality that Jewish families are being targeted and must flee for safety. This can feel intense for younger or more sensitive children. There is mention of a character’s older sister who died years earlier. While the details are not graphic, her death is tied to a tragic accident involving soldiers, which may raise questions or emotions for readers. Tension is present throughout the story as characters face the threat of soldiers, interrogation, and potential capture. At one point, Annemarie is frightened by armed soldiers, and there are moments where characters must act quickly to avoid danger. These scenes are suspenseful but not overly detailed. Annemarie, the main character, shows courage and growth, but she is not perfect. She struggles with fear and, at times, must participate in deception to protect others. While this is portrayed in a morally serious context (protecting life), it may still prompt conversations about honesty, courage, and doing what is right in difficult circumstances. There are occasional mild exclamations such as “Oh!” or similar expressions of surprise or concern, but no strong language or inappropriate dialogue is present. Overall, Number the Stars presents its serious themes with sensitivity and care. It offers strong examples of bravery, self sacrifice, and standing up for what is right even in the face of fear… making it a valuable read for families willing to engage in thoughtful discussion alongside their children.
Psalm 101:3
Quick Answer: Recommended
Concern Level: Medium-Low
Number the Stars is generally a wholesome and meaningful historical novel, but there are a few elements parents, especially those guiding sensitive re... → Continue reading below
Number the Stars
VERDICT: Recommended
(with caution)
Concern Level: Medium-Low
Christian Parent Review
This well-written and meaningful story follows young Annemarie Johansen during the Nazi occupation of Denmark. It draws readers in quickly and keeps their attention with a steady sense of tension, quiet bravery, and purpose all the way through. While the writing is simple and accessible, the themes are powerful and leave a lasting impact. Most of the Christian morals content in this book is shown through actions rather than direct references. We see strong examples of loving one’s neighbor, protecting the innocent, and putting others before oneself, even at great personal risk. Annemarie’s family and others willingly step into danger to help their Jewish friends escape persecution, modeling sacrificial love and moral courage in a way that clearly aligns with biblical principles. There are also meaningful opportunities for discussion around fear, truth, and doing what is right in difficult circumstances. Annemarie grows throughout the story, learning that bravery is not the absence of fear, but choosing to act rightly despite it. Her journey provides a strong example of stepping up when it matters most, even when the outcome is uncertain. A key theme here is courage in the face of fear. The book handles this beautifully, showing how ordinary people, including children, can do extraordinary things when they choose to stand for what is right. While there are references to danger, death, and the realities of war, they are handled with care and without graphic detail, making it appropriate for most middle-grade readers with some parental guidance. We have this one as a Recommended option for your family. It offers an important historical perspective alongside strong moral lessons about courage, sacrifice, and loving others well.
A quick note… while we certainly recommend this book, it does not contain overt Christian or biblical references. The lessons are clear and valuable, but they are not directly tied to Scripture within the story itself. Because of that, this is an excellent candidate for a read together or follow up discussion, allowing parents to help connect the story’s themes to a biblical worldview and ensure those lessons are fully understood.
Note: This information is typically from the publisher.
Use with caution
Ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen and her best friend Ellen Rosen often think of life before the war. It's now 1943 and their life in Copenhagen is filled with school, food shortages, and the Nazi soldiers marching through town. When the Jews of Denmark are "relocated," Ellen moves in with the Johansens and pretends to be one of the family. Soon Annemarie is asked to go on a dangerous mission to save Ellen's life.
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Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. Trouble pursues the sinner, but the righteous are rewarded with good things. A good person leaves an inheritance for their children's children, but a sinner's wealth is stored up for the righteous.
— Proverbs 13:20