The name of the boy that Bruno describes to Lieutenant Kotler in The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is Shmuel. My guess is that this question is one in a series of questions specifically asked about Chapter 15. This is the chapter when Bruno enters the kitchen and is completely shocked to find Shmuel there. Shmuel is chosen to enter the house because his fingers are so small that he is the only one that can clean the tiny glasses. It should be obvious to the reader that Shmuel's fingers are tiny and thin because he is at the point of starvation. Bruno gives Shmuel food. It is at this point that Lieutenant Kotler comes in and begins his questioning of Shmuel, who replies that he did not steal food. "No, sir. He gave it to me. ... He's my friend." This is the moment that Bruno is forced to explain himself in a way that no nine-year-old child ever should.
I ... he was here when I came in. ... He was cleaning glasses. ... I've never spoken to him. ... I've never seen him before in my life. I don't know him.
Bruno is immediately disgusted with himself for his grave mistake and for his cowardice in the situation. Even so, Bruno does not understand what his denial of friendship means for Shmuel. The next time Bruno sees Shmuel to apologize, Bruno notices that Shmuel is covered in bruises.
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