Tolog Review: The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas 
by John Boyne
reviewed by Emma Hartley

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne is a heartbreaking historical fiction novel that takes place outside a concentration camp in Poland. Set during the time of World War II, this tragic story is told from the perspective of nine year old Bruno. After being visited by Adolf Hitler himself, Bruno’s father is promoted to Commandant and has to relocate. Bruno comes home one day to find Maria, the family’s maid, packing up his belongings. Much to his surprise, he learns that his family is being forced to move from their home in Berlin to a mysterious, ominous place called Out-With because of his father’s job. Bruno believes his father to be the most incredible man, but little does he know who his father actually is and what he is doing to the people in Poland. Bruno questions his parents about the fence in the distance outside the window in his room and the people kept within it. When his questions are ignored and he is told to not worry about it, Bruno’s curiosity takes over, and he decides to explore the grounds. This results in Bruno meeting a boy within the camp whose name is Shmuel. The boys know their friendship would be forbidden if their parents discovered it, but they were so desperate and so badly sought the comfort of a friendship, that they continued their secret relationship until one day it goes too far. 

The author frequently uses dramatic irony and symbolism to further emphasize the dehumanizing things that occurred during World War II. Boyne uses the symbol of a fence to illustrate the horrific wall that was created between people during this unspeakable time in history. He also uses the striped pajamas, which is what the prisoners of the camps wore, to signify how Nazis stripped people of what made them special and unique. Boyne offers us insight and perspective on the Germans who were living their everyday lives while people in the concentration camps were suffering terribly. Shown through Bruno’s innocence and obliviousness to everything that was going on, the author conveys the importance of learning about history so it doesn't repeat itself.