Another book I had to read recently for school was John Knowles’ novel, A Separate Peace. The setting is a boys’ boarding school in New England during the early years of World War II. It tells the tale of two boys who become friends, and ultimately strive to be like the other one, though neither realizes this fact. Complete opposites from one another, Gene keeps to himself constantly, and is very intellectual, while Phineas is good-looking, an athlete, and a risk-taker.
The story centers on their becoming friends, and the trials and errors their friendship goes through. This is also another book which provides an insight into what things were like during World War II: while it is about a strong friendship, one of the minor characters, Leper Lepellier, is the first of their extended group of friends to enlist. The war really begins to hit home and they begin to realize the seriousness of what is going on outside the walls of their school. Also might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but definitely a worthwhile read.
The story centers on their becoming friends, and the trials and errors their friendship goes through. This is also another book which provides an insight into what things were like during World War II: while it is about a strong friendship, one of the minor characters, Leper Lepellier, is the first of their extended group of friends to enlist. The war really begins to hit home and they begin to realize the seriousness of what is going on outside the walls of their school. Also might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but definitely a worthwhile read.
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