Secret Levels in SMB2j

[Jabra]

1) How many secret levels are there in super mario bros 2 (the Japanese) ? 2) After I unlock the secret levels once and then switch off the system, do I have to finish the game another time in order to get them again in the next time?
3) What is the story of the 8 stars that appear in the title screen ?
4)In the original version, is it possible to continue from the same area when I get game over ?

[kite200]

2) you have to start over.
4) ok, if you die on 4-4, you start again on 4-1. I think that answers it

[Jedi Master Baiter]

1) 5 Worlds including 9, A, B, C, & D each with 4 stages
2) If you're using a cartridge, yes
3) 8 stars means that you can access Worlds A-D & 24 stars is the total
4) You start on the first stage in the world you lost in with the same character you picked; or...

you can try the continue trick that works on SMB1 to return to the title screen where you can reselect your character & start on the World you lost your last life.