"A Separate Peace" (novel)

"A Separate Peace" by John Knowles is a coming-of-age novel set at a boys' boarding school during World War II. It explores themes of friendship, competition, jealousy, and the loss of innocence. The story centers on Gene Forrester and his complex relationship with his charismatic friend, Finny. As they navigate the challenges of adolescence and looming war, Gene’s hidden insecurities lead to a tragic accident, forcing him to confront his own inner conflicts. The novel reflects on how personal and external conflicts can threaten innocence and shape identity amidst a turbulent historical backdrop.