Number the Stars Chapter 1

Setting and Characters

• The story takes place in Copenhagen, Denmark during World War II.
• Main characters: Annemarie Johansen, Kirsti Johansen (Annemarie's younger sister), and Ellen Rosen (Annemarie's best friend).

Chapter I: Why Are You Running?

• Annemarie, Kirsti, and Ellen are stopped by German soldiers while racing home from school.
• The soldiers warn them not to run, calling them "hoodlums."
• The girls walk home quickly to avoid further notice.
• Ellen and Annemarie agree not to tell their mothers about the incident.
• Rationing is introduced, with no sugar available for the girls.

Chapter II: Who is the Man Who Rides Past?

• Annemarie tells Kirsti a bedtime story, but Kirsti falls asleep quickly.
• Annemarie reflects on King Christian X of Denmark and his protection by the Danish people.
• She recalls her older sister Lise, who died in an accident.

Chapter III: Where Is Mrs. Hirsch?

• Annemarie and her mother discuss preparations for the harsh winter.
• Mrs. Hirsch's shop is closed with a sign in German and a swastika.
• Peter Neilsen explains the German's targeting of Jewish-owned businesses.
• Annemarie realizes that the Rosens are Jewish and understands the threat.

Chapter IV: It Will Be a Long Night

• Annemarie and Ellen play with paper dolls, thinking of happier times.
• Ellen offers to dye new shoes made of fish skin, showing her helpful nature.
• The girls' play is interrupted by memories of real-life war events.
• Ellen's family prepares for the Jewish New Year, and Ellen invites the Johansen girls to watch her mother light the candles.
• Mr. Johansen explains the Nazis' plan to round up Danish Jews.

Chapter V: Who Is the Dark-Haired One?

• Annemarie and Ellen prepare for bed, with Ellen worried about being discovered.
• German soldiers arrive at the Johansen apartment, searching for the Rosens.
• Annemarie helps Ellen remove her Star of David necklace just in time.
• Mr. Johansen uses old family photos to convince the soldiers that Ellen is Lise.

Chapter VI: Is the Weather Good for Fishing?

• Mr. and Mrs. Johansen decide Ellen and Annemarie will go to Uncle Henrik's house instead of school.

Themes

• The impact of war on everyday life.
• Innocence of children amid conflict.
• Adaptation to wartime scarcity and fear.
• Childhood memories and loss.
• The symbolism of King Christian X and Danish pride.
• Contrast between fairy tales and harsh realities.
• Emergence of bravery as a central theme.
• The senseless persecution of Jews by the Nazis.
• Growing awareness of the war's impact on friends and neighbors.
• The importance of community and friendship in times of crisis.
• Fear and quick thinking under pressure.
• The significance of symbols (Star of David) and their dangers.
• The stark reality of Nazi persecution.
• The strong bond of friendship and family loyalty.