Is Bruno smart not to tell his family about Shmuel? Why?

Had Bruno told his family about Shmuel, Shmuel would likely have been punished. In addition, Bruno might have found himself locked up in the house. A friendship between the boys would never have been allowed. Likely, had this happened, Bruno would have survived. Unfortunately, it would not have changed Shmuel's fate.

In my opinion, the particular move, of not informing his family, in regards to his new friend, is not only extremely smart, but beneficial as well. It is not only likely, but sure that knowledge, concerning the particular topic, would lead to the punishment and suffering of shmuel. At the time, numerous Jewish communities were phacing racial discrimination and thus affairs, as well as interactions with them were very limited. For this reason, such relationship would almost definitely be disallowed, and Bruno would be obliged to go under lock down procedures, something that is, beyond a doubt, unwanted.

-Anonymous