Powerful Story
"The story of The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is very difficult to describe. Usually we give some clues about the book on the jacket, but in this case we think that would spoil the reading of the book. We think it is important that you start to read without knowing what it is about.
If you do start to read this book, you will go on a journey with a nine year old boy called Bruno. (Though this isn't a book for nine year olds.) And sooner or later you will arrive with Bruno at a fence.
Fences like these exist all over the world. We hope you never have to encounter such a fence."
(From the book jacket...)
This is the second time I read this book and I have to say that it gives me chills every time. The book is told almost entirely from Bruno's point of view. Everything is viewed through the eyes of a naive, sheltered 9 year old boy. And that is one of the things that makes this novel so moving. Without giving things away, it is hard to explain why this book is so powerful. Let me just say, read it. It probably won't take more than a day or two and it is definitely worth your time.
Recommended to:
This is not a book for kids below high school level. Maybe middle school if you read it with them. Maybe. Not only is the material difficult, but it also might be sort of over their heads.
If you like historical fiction, and frankly even if you don't, read this book. I'm not promising you will love it, but I can't imagine you won't be touched by it in some way.
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