82 pages • 2 hours read
The Boy at The Top of the Mountain
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Book Brief
288
Novel • Fiction
Austria • 1930s
2015
Middle grade
10-14 years
970L
Super Short Summary
The Boy at The Top of the Mountain follows Pierrot Fischer, a young boy who, after the death of his parents, moves from Paris to live with his aunt, the head housekeeper at Hitler’s Austrian retreat. Seduced by power and indoctrinated into Nazi ideology, Pierrot’s innocence transforms into corruption and cruelty. Ultimately, he must confront the aftermath of his actions and seek redemption amidst the horrors of war. The book contains scenes of violence and abuse.
Mysterious
Dark
Melancholic
Emotional
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
28,288 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
John Boyne’s The Boy at the Top of the Mountain delivers a poignant narrative with strong character development and historical accuracy. Reviewers praise its compelling story and emotional depth, but some criticize the predictable plot and occasional lack of subtlety. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read that engages with complex themes effectively.
Who Should Read The Boy at The Top of the Mountain?
Readers who enjoy The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne or The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will find The Boy at the Top of the Mountain compelling. This novel suits those interested in historical fiction, World War II narratives, and deep emotional journeys of young characters grappling with moral dilemmas.
28,288 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Anshel Bronstein
Anshel Bronstein
Pierrot’s childhood friend, known for his intelligence and creativity, who represents the arts and stays true to his values despite adversity.
Beatrix
Beatrix
Pierrot's aunt, who saves him from an orphanage by bringing him to Berghof, and whose steadfast moral compass and resistance activities provide an alternative model for behavior.
Emma
Emma
A member of the Berghof staff who offers moral guidance and stands up to Pierrot, reminding him of his lost innocence.
Ernst
Ernst
A Berghof staff member whose protective guidance and warnings to Pierrot go unheeded, illustrating Pierrot’s rejection of moral influences.
Herta
Herta
The first and last Berghof staff member encountered by Pierrot, who offers lessons in managing life post-World War II and encourages him to acknowledge his wrongdoings.
288
Novel • Fiction
Austria • 1930s
2015
Middle grade
10-14 years
970L
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