READ365 Book Review: The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

September 12, 2019

Afia is a 6th grade student at Meeting Street Elementary at Brentwood. She participated in the READ365 program this past summer and read The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne. Check out her exclusive review below.

What is the setting of the book?
It takes place mid-holocaust time in Berlin.

What surprised you the most while reading the story?
It surprised me that the family didn’t change. The father still fought with the nazis even after his son Bruno died in the gas chamber.

Describe one part of the story you would change if you were the author.
I would probably change the fact that Bruno doesn’t show anyone that he is friends with the boy in the striped pajamas.

Who is your least favorite character?
Gretel because she doesn’t contribute to the story moving forward.

Do any of the characters in the story display any of the Meeting Street Schools Path to Success traits (grit, gratitude, optimism, empathy, citizenship, integrity, self-control, curiosity)?
Empathy. Bruno shows empathy to the boy in the striped pajamas. He accepted the boy for who he is and helps him find his parents. He didn’t know about the Jewish propaganda going on.

On a scale of 1-10, how likely are you to recommend this book to a friend?
6.

Would you read another book by this author?
I may, but it just depends on the genre and what time period.

What is your favorite part of READ365?
My favorite parts are Ms. Dabney and Ms. Sarah. I would recommend it to another classmate.

 

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Meeting Street Schools (MSS) is an innovative non-profit where schools, families, and the community collaborate to create environments where all children can achieve their full potential. With a network of schools across South Carolina, including MSA-Charleston (Charleston, SC), MSA-Spartanburg (Spartanburg, SC), MS-Brentwood (North Charleston, SC), MS-Burns (North Charleston, SC), we are committed to providing students with the rigorous education they deserve.

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Meeting Street Academy – CharlestonDowntown Charleston, SC - Independent School - Since 2008 - 364 Students

Nestled in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina, MSA Charleston is more than just a school—it’s a hub for innovative learning and community engagement. As part of the Meeting Street Schools network, MSA Charleston embodies a commitment to excellence through its rigorous academic programs, inclusive culture, and focus on developing the whole child. With a curriculum that emphasizes both academic and personal growth, MSA Charleston prepares students to be curious learners and active citizens of their community.

Meeting Street Academy – SpartanburgDowntown Spartanburg, SC - Public Charter School - Since 2012 - 323 Students

Meeting Street Academy – Spartanburg is as a pillar of educational innovation in the Spartanburg community. The school’s dedicated educators and supportive learning environment ensure that each child receives a high-quality, personalized education with exceptional faculty and teachers. The Academy is distinguished by its emphasis on community partnership, fostering relationships that extend beyond the classroom to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success.

Meeting Street – BrentwoodNorth Charleston, SC - Public School - Since 2014 - 850 Students

Meeting Street – Brentwood is a place where education meets opportunity. Serving the Brentwood area, this neighborhood Public School of Innovation is a testament to the transformative power of education. With a student-centered approach that celebrates diversity and encourages excellence, Meeting Street – Brentwood is dedicated to equipping students with the skills they need to thrive in the 21st century. Meeting Street – Brentwood also serves as a hub for the Brentwood community to access educational and wellness services. The school’s commitment to innovation, coupled with a warm, welcoming environment, makes it a standout in the Meeting Street Schools network.

Meeting Street – BurnsNorth Charleston, SC - Public School - Since 2018 - 478 Students

Located in a community rich with history and culture, Meeting Street – Burns is renowned for its dynamic educational approach that intertwines traditional learning with modern teaching techniques. The school’s focus on experiential learning ensures that students at Meeting Street – Burns are not only recipients of knowledge but also active participants in their educational journey. The school exists to spark an educational revolution for the students and families in the Dorchester-Waylyn Neighborhood in North Charleston. With a commitment to creating a supportive and challenging academic environment, Meeting Street – Burns is forging a new path in public education.

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