Number the Stars

Study Guide

Summary

Chapters VIII–IX

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Summary Chapters VIII–IX

As the night goes on, Annemarie still has doubts about what she is being told. However, now she can understand and accept the necessity of not knowing everything. She is sure that is not being told the truth, which is not the same as being lied to. Annemarie has a very powerful feeling when she and her mother look at each other. For the first time, they are on the same page. Each understands that Mrs. Johansen cannot tell Annemarie everything, and that Annemarie knows and accepts this. Annemarie says that she feels she has become equal to her mother. Whether or not this is true in Mrs. Johansen's eyes, it is important to Annemarie's growing sense of belonging with the adults.

Transformation is a theme in this chapter. Annemarie's idea about lying is transformed, as is her notion of bravery. To Annemarie, this is a turning point in her status. She has been transformed, at least for now, from a child to an adult. When Peter arrives he is also transformed. He is more serious and urgent. He is the same person, but he acts differently. Even the house they are staying in has been transformed to accommodate the funeral and the mourners. The theme of transformation also hints at the dual purpose that Henrik's boat is about to serve.

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