Project 2: From Here to There The time period when the story happens is very important to the setting of Number the Stars. The conflict at the heart of the story would only happen during World War II. However, the location of the story is also key-it happens in Denmark, a European country not far from Germany but farther north than any other nation that was occupied by Hitler's army. Create a map that shows the journey that Ellen and her family took to escape from Copenhagen to safety and freedom in Sweden. Use an atlas or a globe to make sure your map is accurate. Also add labels and pictures or symbols to represent each location on your map.