The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, by John Boyne

We saw the film on tv the other night and recorded it for our son to watch, after a bit of soul searching. He watched it with me and we decided to buy the book as I thought it would probably explain the story much better. It did. We read the book together and were able to discuss it in detail and depth, enabling my son to understand a little of what went on during WW2. This is a very poignant book, some have said not historically accurate, but nevertheless, a modern fable worth reading. I have given this a ten. The point of view of the child is very well put.

Incredibly moving and poignant. This child's perspective of the Holocaust is unique. If your child is younger and/or a little sensitive, they will probably need your presence for support and questions, but it is a good way of introducing them to this difficult subject and the whole problem of racial hatred.

a good historical novel for children. my son was actually 9 when he read this, and enjoyed it. then bought the dvd for him

Heartbreaking, a Children's book which views the Holocaust through the eyes of a German boy, Bruno.

As you realise where Bruno lives and the circumstances of his new friend, Shmuel, you cannot fail to be gripped.

Emotional and gripping

an excellent book, very witty and comical in parts.the child refering to hitler as the fury and the camp as outwith, my daughter asked questions about this and now understands this part of history very well, a very well written book, much better than the film of the same name

Im reading this with my son. He is enjoying it immensely, and its good for them to see life in the past. well written.

The blurb on this book gives very little away and rightly so. You and your child (and I would suggest a few discussions about the book as he/she reads it) are led in a direction that is revealed slowly, painfully and to a very final conclusion.

A brilliant book which may throw up awkward questions for a child aged 10 or over. Even if your child is a confident reader, the subject matter - the holocaust is not an easy one to digest and that is why I suggest 10 plus. Good platform to talk about human rights generally. There are some historical inaccuracies but none that will spoil the story. Essentially it captures the mind of a child whose Dad moves the family for his new job and the friendship the child makes with another boy. From this simple idea we glimpse a unique perspective of world events