The Yellow Star: The Legend of King Christian X of Denmark

The Yellow Star tells the story of King Christian X of Denmark during the Nazi occupation of his country in World War II. Through both text and illustrations, the book recounts how the king responded to the German presence and treatment of Jewish citizens. The narrative focuses on King Christian X's daily horseback rides through Copenhagen, which became a symbol of Danish resistance and hope. His relationship with the Danish people and his quiet defiance of Nazi forces form the central elements of the tale. The king's actions, whether historical fact or legend, raise questions about courage, leadership, and standing up to injustice. This picture book presents complex themes of moral choice and resistance in a format accessible to young readers.

Readers appreciate the book's message about courage and standing up against persecution, though many note the story is based on an unproven legend rather than historical fact. Parents and teachers report the book serves as an effective teaching tool about WWII for young children. Likes: - Henri Sørensen's oil paintings receive frequent praise - Clear, accessible writing style for children - Author's note explaining the historical context - Promotes discussion about moral choices Dislikes: - Perpetuates a myth that didn't actually happen - Some readers feel misleading to children - A few note it oversimplifies complex historical events Ratings: Goodreads: 4.18/5 (1,074 ratings) Amazon: 4.8/5 (116 ratings) "The illustrations alone make this book worth owning," writes one Amazon reviewer. Multiple Goodreads reviews mention using it successfully in elementary classrooms, though some teachers note they must clarify the legendary versus factual elements.

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★ King Christian X of Denmark was Europe's tallest monarch at 6'6" (1.98m) and rode his horse through Copenhagen daily, even during the Nazi occupation. ★ Though the yellow star legend is not historically accurate, Denmark did save approximately 99% of its Jewish population during World War II through a remarkable nationwide effort to smuggle them to neutral Sweden. ★ Author Carmen Agra Deedy fled Cuba with her family in 1963 during the aftermath of the Cuban Missile Crisis and found refuge in the United States. ★ The Danish Resistance Movement created a sophisticated network called "Helsingor Sewing Club" that helped coordinate the rescue of Jews, using code words related to textile work to disguise their activities. ★ The book won multiple awards, including the Christopher Award and the Jane Addams Peace Association Honor Book award for its powerful message about standing up against prejudice and injustice.