We have changed our privacy policy. In addition, we use cookies on our website for various purposes. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. You can learn about our practices by reading our privacy policy.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas Chapter 17 Summary

How It All Goes Down

Mother Gets Her Own Way

  • Bruno's mother wants to return to Berlin, but his father is worried that people will question his commitment.
  • For a few weeks nothing changes: Bruno hangs out with Shmuel, Gretel studies her maps, and his mother takes a lot of naps and drinks lots of sherry.
  • But then their father asks the kids if they want to go back to Berlin; Gretel says yes and Bruno says he just wants them to be together.
  • Father knows best (again) and decides that they'll go back Berlin within the week.
  • Bruno is not excited, though, and dreads giving Shmuel the news.