[Book Review] The boy in the stripped pyjamas by John Boyne

bong.reader

Sep 2

(12/30) The boy in the stripped pyjamas by John Boyne

It is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that tells the story of a forbidden friendship between two young boys during the Holocaust. This powerful narrative serves as a reminder of the atrocities of war while highlighting the enduring innocence and compassion of children.

Boyne's writing style is both simple and deeply moving, allowing readers to experience the events through the innocent eyes of eight-year-old Bruno. The plot unfolds with a gradual intensity, revealing the harsh reality of Auschwitz concentration camp against the backdrop of Bruno and Shmuel's unlikely friendship. Boyne's storytelling skillfully juxtaposes innocence with the horrors of war, creating a chilling and emotional impact.

The novel delves into themes of friendship, innocence, prejudice, and the consequences of blind obedience. Through the lens of Bruno and Shmuel's friendship, Boyne addresses the moral complexities of the Holocaust, shedding light on the dehumanizing effects of discrimination and cruelty. The novel encourages readers to reflect on the consequences of prejudice and the power of empathy.

The characters, especially Bruno and Shmuel, are well-developed and relatable, each representing the stark contrast between the experiences of those inside and outside the camp. Bruno's naivety and his genuine friendship with Shmuel evoke both sympathy and heartache. The characters' interactions offer a powerful commentary on the impact of ideologies on human relationships.

This book is recommended for those seeking a moving and thought-provoking exploration of empathy, morality, and the resilience of the human heart.

Best lines and quotes:

"Sitting around miserable all day won't make you any happier."
"We'll be best friends, forever and ever."
"He looked at the people behind the fence and he felt a strange nostalgia come over him. They were not people at all really: they were things."
"What exactly was the difference? he wondered to himself. And who decided which people wore the striped pyjamas and which people wore the uniforms?"
"Of course all this happened a long time ago and nothing like that could ever happen again. Not in this day and age."

Until the next read, Happy Reading!!!