I don’t exactly remember when or where I picked up A Separate Peace by John Knowles, I just remember that I knew I had to read it, and it lands as the eigth book of my 50 in 2013. It’s been described as a masterpiece and “beautifully written.” I couldn’t agree more. The prose and narration are brilliant without being overdone. The story, though not necessarily a page-turner is tight, concise and knowingly told.
Having spent grades five through 12 in all-boys schools, I am all to familiar with the testosterone-fueled need to prove yourself; the guilt when, as a teenager you’ve done something you’re ashamed to admit but want to anyway; the made-up games; and the tortuous nicknames given to classmates.
Looking back on those years, this is a story I may have been able to tell, but I would have failed to express it as elegantly as Knowles has done.
If you love outstanding writing, or want to improve your own ability to compose a story, do yourself a favor and read this book.
Finding Greatness 