A very eloquently told story, in near entirety a flashback, of a boy whose jealousy got the better of him. In the world of frenemies that exists, this tale resonates, but speaks of the travesties of war, real and imagined, internationally waged and personally crafted, in such a way that is impactful. Adolescent identity is made in these moments, these choices, and, as one who cares very little for war stories and war films and the like, I was pleasantly surprised by this tale set during WWII. Perhaps it was because of the lack of actual historical battles, despite being amidst the culture of it, that I enjoyed this book, as it was wholly set within the context of a high school, something nearly everyone has experienced. The characters seem real, the dialogue natural. I loved the flow of it all, with all its twists and turns, and I completely understand why it is considered a classic. I highly recommend A SEPARATE PEACE.

This book still wows me. It is a subtle story. No quick violence or fast humor, but a slow tense march to a devestating finale.

Although WW2 is always present on the sidelines of this story, waiting to destroy the innocence of youth, the focus is more on the inner turmoil that exists in a close friendship-- the jealousies and ugliness just below the surface, the blackness within men that is so necessary for war. Well-told and tragic.

@splashcrash I agree

This book is really unpredictable. I could never guess that Gene would hurt his best friend, but at the same time, I wonder if he really hurt his best friend. I mean, the moment when the accident happened is never described clearly. I am really impressed by Phineas. Is he really able to forgive a friend who breaks his dream? If it were me, I don't know if I would be this tolerant. After reading this book, I was contemplating the book title, A Separate Peace. What does that mean? Does that mean Gene and Phineas enjoy different kind of peace? Probably Phineas's peace is to be a sport specialist. But what about Gene? Is his peace to protect Phineas, or to excel everyone? Well, I just think the characters are really inscrutable. An interesting reading experience!

splashcrashy um can i jus say that ShuMinHe1996 should not say what was in the book because i have not read it yet and i was looking at coments to see how good it was and then i saw that someone hurt there best friend and know i kinda know what the story is about whitch isn't good plz dont do this again

A Separate Peace, tells a great story. I truly admire Knowles' characterization. He created Gene and Phineas as two clashing characters and really puts the reader inside the mind of Gene. It frankly changed the way I look at life and the way I feel that an event can change someone's outlook. I strongly suggest reading this book.

I think this novel received a bit too much hype but, overall it provides a picture of the hardships faced by a group of friends during the wartime. I didn't enjoy as much as I thought I would but, I wasn't disappointed in the outcome. All in all, I strongly recommend for those liking coming-of-age, wartime shock, and friendship-focused stories (pretty specific, I know, but worth a read if that's what you like).

One of the best coming of age novels ever. Moving, and a bit dark but not overly so. It's about remorse after having done a terrible thing to a friend.