Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

This novel is sent in 1943 Denmark, during the beginning of the Nazi occupation. It details the struggles of Annemarie Johansen and her best friend Ellen Rosen. Ellen is jewish and is in danger of being caught and sent to a Nazi death camp. Annemarie and her parents decide to hide Ellen in their family as Annemarie's sister who had died. Because of Ellen's coloring she looks very similar to Annemarie's sister. As things in Denmark increasingly worse, it becomes clear that Ellen must leave on a ship heading for a safer place. Annemarie must bravely assist her best friend to freedom.
        Number the Stars is a fantastic holocaust novel that showcases Lowry's storytelling abilities. This novel is one of my very favorites, and instilled in me a love for historical fiction, specifically about the holocaust. This book is both suspenseful and intriguing, the characters are likable and many children will relate to the thought processes and struggles they deal with. This is a great story of the bravery and moral integrity that characterized the Danish people's reaction to Nazi occupation. This Newberry Award winner is appropriate for upper elementary and middle school students.

Dead End in Norvelt by Jack Gantos

Jack Gantos is preparing himself for a summer of baseball and lounging when he gets in trouble for mowing down his mom’s cornfield and shooting off his dad’s Japanese rifle. Jack, instead of spending time with friends, is commissioned to help his neighbor Ms. Volker , who is crippled by arthritis, write obituaries for the quickly diminishing population of Norvelt.  As more and more originally founders of Norvelt die off, Jack becomes suspicious of the causes.

            This Newbery winner is a delightful tale of a small town and the people in it. Jack’s character is vibrant and funny. His relationship with Ms. Volker is endearing, and the mystery surrounding the town keeps you interested.  The narrative is both humorous and relatable. This book would be great for middle school or high school students.