Number the Stars Friendship Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #4

"Go on," Mama told her. "Run ahead and tell the house we've come home."

Then she put her arm around Ellen's shoulders and added, "Say that we've brought a friend." (6.68)

The Johansens are always focused on helping Ellen, rather than saving themselves. They've made it all the way to Henrik's house, but they're mostly just happy that they've gotten Ellen to safety. These sure are some selfless people.

Quote #5

Annemarie had listened and said nothing. So now I, too, am lying, she thought, and to my very best friend. I could tell Ellen that it isn't true, that there is no Great-aunt Birte. I could take her aside and whisper the secret to her so that she wouldn't have to feel sad. (9.31)

Since Ellen is Annemarie's "very best friend," it feels wrong to lie to her. But she knows that she has to take care of Ellen the same way her mother and uncle have taken care of her (Annemarie). She's doing what's best for her friend, not what will give her the most peace of mind.

Quote #6

Annemarie felt a surge of sadness; the bond of their friendship had not broken, but it was as if Ellen had moved now into a different world, the world of her own family and whatever lay ahead for them. (10.4)

The war will pull these girls apart no matter how close they want to be. But do you think they can weather the storm? Will their friendship survive?