95 pages • 3 hours read
John KnowlesA Separate Peace
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1959A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Published in 1959, A Separate Peace, by John Knowles, follows Gene Forrester, who recounts his turbulent experiences at a New England boarding school during World War II. Set in the summer of 1943, Gene struggles with complex emotions, competition, and loyalty in his friendship with Phineas, or Finny. As the war encroaches on their lives, Gene grapples with guilt, conflict, and the impact of his actions on their bond. Sensitive topics like physical trauma and loss are addressed.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
John Knowles' A Separate Peace is lauded for its poignant exploration of friendship, loyalty, and the dark undercurrents of adolescence. Critics appreciate the novel's rich symbolism and emotional depth. However, some readers find its pacing slow and certain characters underdeveloped. Overall, it remains a compelling read, resonating with themes of identity and inner conflict.
Who Should Read A Separate Peace?
Readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories with themes of friendship, rivalry, and personal growth, like J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye or William Golding's Lord of the Flies, will be captivated by John Knowles' A Separate Peace. This book is ideal for those who appreciate introspective narratives and complex emotional landscapes.
RecommendedReading Age
14-18yearsLexile Level
1030L