The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas

John Boyne 2006

Devastation Rating

Existential Dread
war historical loss family literary fiction

Our Take

The child who does not understand what he is looking at, and the catastrophe that results. Boyne's use of innocence is ruthless — Bruno's naivety is the mechanism of tragedy. The ending is the only ending possible, and it is horrible, and you see it coming, and it doesn't matter.

Also available as an audiobook on Audible. Free 30-day trial — one free audiobook included.

Kindle Unlimited

Read over 1 million books free — 30-day trial →

£9.49/month after trial. Cancel anytime. Affiliate link.

This page contains affiliate links. If you buy a book through one of these links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Full disclosure →