The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne is a novel about an 8-year-old boy, Bruno, who is forced to relocate from Berlin to Poland with his family during World War II. Growing increasingly bored and frustrated at their secluded country home, Bruno sneaks away one day into the forbidden territory next door where he encounters a shocking sight: Nazi soldiers forcing Jewish families into concentration camps. With his innocence lost forever, Bruno resolves to do whatever it takes to help free the prisoners before they’re all killed.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for 8-year-olds and up.
Pros :
- The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is a well-written, descriptive novel that brings to life the tragedy of World War II.
- Bruno is an easy character to relate to and readers will experience a wide range of emotions as they follow his journey.
- This book provides an important lesson for children about the Holocaust and genocide, without being too graphic or disturbing.
Cons :
- The Boy in the Striped Pajamas may be too intense or graphic for some readers.
- The story is sad and depressing, with no real resolution or happy ending.
- Bruno is a very unsympathetic protagonist, making it difficult to feel invested in his journey.
Learn more about the author
John Boyne is the author of eleven novels for adults, five books for young readers and a stage play. He has won numerous awards including the Irish Children’s Book Award, the German Young Readers’ Prize, The Dutch Silver Pencil Prize and three British Book Awards. John lives in Dublin with his wife and four children.
Reader Reviews
“A deeply affecting story that will long haunt readers.”
“This book will haunt you.”
“This book is amazing. John Boyne does an incredible job of capturing the innocence of a young boy, and then slamming him into the harsh realities that come with war.”
“An unforgettable story that will stay with you long after the last page is turned.”
