Reviews

Set in Nazi-occupied Denmark in 1943, this 1990 Newbery winner tells of a 10-year-old girl who undertakes a dangerous mission to save her best friend. Ages 10-14. (Sept.)

"A story of Denmark and the Danish people, whose Resistance was so effective in saving their Jews.""--School Library Journal, "Starred

Gr 4-8-The horrors of the Holocaust and the bravery of the Danish people during World War II are thoughtfully presented in Lois Lowry's novel (HM, 1989), a story that children will cherish. In 1943, ten-year-old Annemarie Johannesen and her best friend, Ellen Rosen, are not entirely aware of why the German soldiers are standing on the street corners of Copenhagen, but they quickly begin to realize the danger that exists and what it means to be brave. From the moment that German soldiers barge into her home in the middle of the night, until she sees her friends safely smuggled on her uncle's boat headed for Sweden, Annemarie begins to see the world through adult eyes and is forced to give up a part of her childish innocence. Blair Brown gently narrates this Newbery award-winning novel, which will slowly draw listeners into Danish life 60 years ago. The variation in Brown's voice clearly distinguishes between each character, from sweet, young Kirsti to kind Uncle Henrik to the demanding German soldiers. This timeless story of courage, friendship, and family, based on the actual events of the Danish Resistance to World War II, should be part of every child's introduction to the Holocaust. This recording is an essential purchase for school and public libraries and would make an excellent family listening experience.-Casey Rondini, Hartford Public Library, CT Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.