Reviewed by Sandra Merville Hart

Winner of the John Newbery Medal

In 1943, ten-year-old Annamarie Johansen lives with her family in Copenhagen, Denmark. Her country surrendered to the Germans early in World War II, because their army was small. There have been soldiers on nearly every street corner for years. Annamarie has almost grown used to them. Then, during the celebration for the Jewish New Year, her friend Ellen learns that the soldiers are coming to “relocate” them. No one knows where they’ll go.

Annamarie’s family hides Ellen, pretending to be her sister. Peter, who had planned to marry Annamarie’s sister, hides her parents. The soldiers search for Ellen’s family in the middle of the night at Annamarie’s apartment. They are curious, but they leave.

The next day, Annamarie’s mother takes the girls to her brother’s home.

This children’s book snagged my attention from the beginning. Readers discover what the Nazis did in Denmark during the war. The bravery shown by the characters tugged at my heart. The author weaves a believable story that kept me turning pages.

Well-written and poignant, this story illustrates the danger faced by everyone who helped the Jews escape from the Germans.  

Recommended for children aged 10-13.

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