Maybe he tells stories about their family history, like how their ancestors overcame difficulties in the past. It could be a way to give the boy strength and a sense of identity.
The dad might tell adventure stories. For example, he could talk about a fictional hero from Jewish folklore who fought against evil. These stories would not only entertain the boy but also inspire him to be brave in the difficult situation of the camp.
You could gently let him know that you've heard those stories before. Maybe say something like 'Honey, I love hearing about your experiences, but I've already heard this one a few times.' He might not even realize he's repeating himself.
The stories can give the boy courage. In a difficult place like the camp, hearing positive stories can make him feel less alone and more determined to survive.
The stories can give the boy hope. In a difficult camp situation, hearing positive or inspiring stories can make him believe that things will get better.
Another option is to try to change the topic when he starts the same story again. For example, start talking about a new movie or a recent event in your life. This can subtly shift the conversation away from the repeated story.
He could be trying to teach you a lesson through that story. He thinks it's important and wants to make sure you really understand it, so he keeps repeating it to drive the point home. It's his way of making sure the message gets through to you.
There was this time when my dad went fishing. He was so excited when he got a big bite. But when he reeled it in, it was just an old boot. He was so disappointed at first but then he started to joke about it, saying he caught the rarest 'boot - fish' in the lake.