by Sarah Murray

Created on: November 07, 2009   Last Updated: November 08, 2009

I had never watched the film or read the book until I started my teacher training and was asked if I could teach the module on this text. I was a little bit wary as this is the type of text that would have me sobbing in front of a class of 30. It did have me sobbing but I was also extremely surprised to find that the group of 11 year olds were glued to it.

'The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas' by John Boyne is a novel that depicts the atrocities of the Holocaust through a child's eyes. The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas is the story of a nine year old boy, named Bruno; however, as described in the blurb it isn't a book for nine-year-olds. Although told from the perspective of a nine year old, the narrative is more than captivating for readers around the age of 11 or 12. The story follows Bruno: the son of the recently appointed commandant of Out-with. He is a curious young boy and dreams of becoming an explorer when he is older. His explorations lead him to an encounter with a fence in the distance of his garden. Here he finds a friendship that knows no boundaries, with a young Jewish boy named Shmuel. The narrative goes on to explore the surprising friendship of these two boys and highlights Bruno's childhood innocence towards one of man's greatest inhumanities to his fellow man.

The narrative voice is of great interest and importance in the novel. We are looking at very adult issues in a child eyes. We, as the reader, have more knowledge of the scenario Bruno has found himself in than Bruno himself. However, the reader is in fact left to deduce the plot themselves throughout the evidence given by the character of Bruno. The plot itself is never explicitly stated. Furthermore, the language of the novel is of great importance. For instance, the way the author purposefully refers to famous historical figures and events incorrectly, emphasises the child's innocence and the inevitable tragedy which will occur.

Most importantly, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas is a very engaging read as it deals with issues which are at the heart of a young person's life. These themes include that of friendship, humanity, identity, the consequences of discrimination and prejudice, the consequences of conformity and obedience to the norm even if the norm is morally unjust. Also themes such as, power struggles, indoctrination, fear and secrets can be seen throughout the novel. The social, historical and cultural backgrounds which can be seen are also appealing to readers. The atrocities of the Holocaust, whilst tragic and atrocious, are stimulating and provocative to adults and young readers alike.

Overall, on the surface Boyne's novel may seem simple and straightforward, however I feel it is an excellent read. It is a multi layered book, which offers an engaging and accessible story in conjunction with social, moral and historical issues, dramatic irony and use of language and audience. A class filled with 11 year olds were hooked from the first chapter. I, personally, was hooked from the moment I read the blurb. One of the most truly heart rendering books I have ever read.

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