Questions About A Separate Peace

by John Knowles

Reader Q&A

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Answered Questions (16)

I'm I the only one that thought the total lack of sex seemed unrealistic for a boys school?

Thomas Yes, you are the only one. A boarding school is very strict and most boys were focusing on the war, not sex.

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Is this book ok for a thirteen year old? Are there any scenes to old for that? :)

Melissa My gifted English class read it at 15. I would think it depends on the maturity of the 13 year old. I know I was reading adult mysteries at 13. I thin…moreMy gifted English class read it at 15. I would think it depends on the maturity of the 13 year old. I know I was reading adult mysteries at 13. I think it should definitely be read in adolescence. Teens need to be made to examine life and their choices and relationships with others in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable and I believe that ASP does that. As a girl, it was also interesting to see this male perspective of coming of age which I still find enigmatic. (less)

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Is it just me or does it seem like Finny and Gene are gay?

Katherine Yes, it does seem like they are. Especially in the first half of the book it seems like Gene has an infatuation with Finny.

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Why does anyone like this book?

Gavin I'm a little late to this, but I believe this book is a 2 star read. I do see how some people could enjoy it as a good read about a friendship during …moreI'm a little late to this, but I believe this book is a 2 star read. I do see how some people could enjoy it as a good read about a friendship during a war, I do not think this. I figured it would be an interesting historical fiction. (I had to pick from a list a old book to read for school.) (less)

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I'm currently reading this book and I'm very confused at the start of it. Why is the tree so important to Gene? Does it explain this later. I want to read this book but it is suddenly losing interest.