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  • The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

  • Written by: John Boyne
  • Narrated by: Michael Maloney
  • Length: 4 hrs and 57 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (107 ratings)

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The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

Written by: John Boyne
Narrated by: Michael Maloney
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Publisher's Summary

The story of The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is very difficult to describe. Usually we give some information about the audiobook, but in this case we think that would spoil the listening. We think it's important that you start to listen without knowing what it is about.

If you do start to listen, you will go on a journey with a nine-year-old boy named Bruno. (Though this isn't a story for nine-year-olds.) And sooner or later, you will arrive with Bruno at the fence.

Fences like this exist all over the world. We hope that you never have to encounter such a fence.

©2006 John Boyne (P)2006 Random House Inc. Listening Library, an imprint of the Random House Audio Publishing Group

What the critics say

"His combination of strong characterization and simple, honest narrative make this powerful and memorable tale a unique addition to Holocaust literature." (School Library Journal

What listeners say about The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

Average Customer Ratings
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Great Narration

If you've ever considered reading this book, the audiobook is a fantastic way to do so. The narrator is perfect for the story, and may even be my favorite narrator so far... anyone who thinks this book might be simplified or childish is entirely incorrect. The book is meant to be read by many, and it is written from the perspective of a nine-year-old boy. it is not meant to be a single reference for that time in history, but instead, I think it's meant to be a jumping off point; a way to start a conversation.

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Riveting, Important, Timely.

A vital and important story for all readers, including, perhaps especially, children and teens.
To gain an understanding that this could happen again- and has since 1945 - is one of the most important social lessons today.
Albeit that this story is a fable, it cannot by diminished by the reality of the entire travesty of the "how and why" around this horrible time in human history that lacked such bravery and honesty by the masses, and yet such compliance and complacency seemed to run amuck around the world.

We should look through the lens of this story and recognize how we continue to fail in our ability to recognize, advocate and protect humanity and the sacredness of all life still today.

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Why oh why did this have to be this short!

Overall a phenomenal story. Just wish it was longer. It was that good. The ending will have me thinking about this for a long time.

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it's so well done. I loved it

so well written I want everyone to read it . I love the perspective of Bruno and. how a little innocent boy saw the world and how in the end the father had to see what he had done.

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Absolutely incredible

Listened on a road trip with my kids from start to finish and MY GOD. Must read. I bawled.

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Great Read

Really loved this book! Very interesting and thought provoking. We listened as a family and our children enjoyed it as well.

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Utterly Chilling and unforgettable

I was intrigued by the "description" of this story that suggested that it was better not to know too much about the story going into it, so my curiosity led me to listen to it. I was quite soon very engaged in this story and it wound me tighter and tighter in it's grip. There was small issues found annoying at first (the writer is rather precious with some expressions) however, when considering that this is from the viewpoint of a 9 year old boy, it is completely understandable.

The narrator was brilliant! He captured the dialogue of the various characters brilliantly. As to the story - well, this is a tale I will never forget. I was literally chilled (like the hair on my arms stood up on end) when I realized where this story was going. Brilliant tale!! I would highly recommend it.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Read with students and they really enjoyed it.

I used this to supplement reading chapters and my students love it. Story is simple enough to be enjoyed by children but interesting enough to be enjoyed by adults.

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Poignant and very affecting

The incredible contrast between Bruno's innocence/ignorance and the reality of life at the camp was such an incredible and contemplative literary standpoint. What a great way to inspire a desire in readers, especially children, to question and learn more about the part of history. Thank you, John Boyne!

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very good read.

loved it. was definately worth reading. if you are into ww2 books, definately read this

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