Publisher's Synopsis
Bryant draws on close examination of John Knowles's original manuscript to present this analysis of "A Separate Peace" (1960). He places the book in its historical context - America during the World War II years - and explained how it evolved from the author's earlier works. Incorporating commentary from Knowles concerning his designs and intentions in the novel, Bryant shows that its enduring popularity is due to the universal theme it so resonantly expresses: the intangible loss and shame that accompany growing up.
