A Separate Peace is the coming-of-age chronicle of young Gene Forrester, a studious
and introverted student of Devon, an elite boys’ boarding school. His roommate is a popular,
adventurous, risk-taking athlete: Finny. With their participation in World War II just around the
corner, they savor these last days of boyhood, climbing trees and going to beaches and having
snowball fights. But in the background of their friendship a dark rivalry and jealousy lurks, and
few can foretell the tragedy that will result.
This book is a fast-paced and well-written read. The writing style and descriptions are
phenomenal and engaging. However, I found the story itself to be a little bland and unoriginal -
though I’m sure for its time it was revolutionary. It also felt like critical parts of the story were left
to interpretation, which might have been a stylistic choice that worked for some, though I wasn’t
a fan. Overall, it was a quick read with some interesting points and beautiful writing. I would rate
it three out of five stars.