Rating: 
Summary: Heartbreaking...
Review: A Separate Piece is a unique book. The only comparisons I can draw are to films like Dead Poets Society or Scent of a Woman - that whole genre set at rich boarding schools. The obvious comparison is to Catcher in the Rye, but the tone of that novel is entirely different. The thing that sets this novel off is the moral ambiguity of the narrator, Gene. At first, we sympathize with him but then he commits an unforgivable act. If we sympathize with him the rest of the book, we sympathize with his sense of guilt over doing something he cannot forgive himself for. Gene's fall from innocence is mirrored by America's fall during WWII. This is a heartbreaking novel, capturing the joys and horrors of youth that stay with you your entire life.
Rating:
Summary: Must reads
Review: We had to read three "coming of age" books in school recently, and all were extremely good and completely different from each other. "Catcher in the Rye," "The Bark of the Dogwood" and this one, "A Separate Peace," were the books. We voted in class, and "Peace" was our favorite, followed by "Dogwood." Knowles book is so well-written and moving that I don't see how anyone could not like it. Whether you have to read it or not for class, pick up a copy!
Rating:
Summary: An excellent novel
Review: When I first read "A Seperate Peace", I absolutely hated it. I hated everything about it. Then a few months later I picked it up again (because it was for school) and as I began to reread the novel and see the different metaphors carved into the tragic plot, I really began to truly appreciate it. If you don't like this book on the first read, go back through it later and look for deeper meanings, look into the personalities of the characters and how they conflict, look for the metaphors. This is such a wonderfully crafted novel that I can't recommend it more. While it is wonderful, it is also very depressing at times, so don't read it expecting a really happy story. Expect a perfect tragic American literary classic.
Rating:
Summary: I LOVED this book!
Review: A thoughtful, emotional book. I highlighted many parts when I was reading and still go back just to experience the flow and beauty of this book. I definitely recommend this.
Rating: 
Summary: Going against the grain here...
Review: I see all of these glowing reviews of this book, but I have to honestly say I was not impressed. I am just calling it like I see it. I thought the book seemed like a television melodrama, a frail one-note tragedy. The author's descriptions of the seasons and school campus were pleasant, but the plot left something to be desired.I believe A Separate Peace would have been more effective as a short story. Take it or leave it.
Rating:
Summary: One of the best books I have ever read
Review: A Separate Peace has to be one of my favorite novels by far. It is exceptionally written in an easily readable, yet poetic style. It is a novel that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
In the novel Gene Forrester, a student at a boy's prepatory academy in New England, explores the enmity that he believes is present in everyone, except for his best friend Phineas.
The novel opens upon Gene's return to Devon, and is told through his reflections over the events that happened while he was at school there during World War II. As he reflects over events that have troubled him over the years, he begins to come to an understanding, and eventually, a peace.
Rating:
Summary: memorable after 26 years
Review: I read this book back in high school, and it remains one of the most beautiful, memorable books I have ever read. If you are reading all these reviews - please skip the one by reader Michelle - she gives away the surprise ending
Rating:
Summary: A Classic
Review: I highly recommend that everyone who reads this book take their time and savor every page. It is an eloquent, thoughtful novel that deftly explores the nature of evil as it resides in all of us. Phineas is a moving, memorable character that embodies the peace, compassion, and fulfillment all of us strive for. Unfortunately, he is almost too good, and that, in a way, kills him. Gene's self-hatred and insecurity make him an everyman (I'd say he represents each one of us), and unfortunately those characteristics inherent in us all manifest themsevles in an act of thoughtless violence that ultimately destroys Phineas. The story is a parable, warning us to guard that part of us that has a tendency towards "evil" and is set against the backdrop of War, the ultimate evil that happens when we let the less noble qualities of our character get the better of us. I found it a profound comment on the human condition and a subtle, yet effective, prodding to listen to our better instincts and live compassionate lives.
Rating:
Summary: "A Separate Peace"
Review: This book, "A Separate Peace," is one of the worst books I have ever read. I can honestly say that I could not understand the concept and the book to me was very hard to understand. I would actually recommend finding another book to read. The only good chapters in this book were the second and the eleventh. I am just trying to be honest.
Rating:
Summary: Beautiful!
Review: Great characters, great story, and wonderful pacing make this not only a beautifully-written book, but a great read as well. And the two don't always go hand-in-hand. The most striking thing about this novel is its pacing and story line, for Knowles builds his plot from the ground up. The writing is reminicent of McCrae's BARK OF THE DOGWOOD or Fitzgerald's GREAT GATSBY, though those books have completely different plots and characters. But all great books have certain things in common, and A SEPARATE PEACE is certainly a great book. Emotional, and yet restrained and subtle, this major work of fiction is a must for anyone interested in good writing. Also recommended: McCrae's BARK OF THE DOGWOOD and Steinbeck's EAST OF EDEN
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