Set in 1942, this book takes place at an all boys boarding school in New England. Gene is an introspective, studious, sixteen-year-old. Phineas is a taunting, outgoing, star athlete. This book follows Gene and Finny, and their friendship, as they struggle to find an identity separate from the war, while attempting to act "appropriately" for their age.
This book starts off during the Summer Session. Aptly named, given it takes place during the summer. As the summer days shorten, the boys fill their time with new games and challenging pastimes one of which includes jumping from the largest tree on campus. The tree seems to taunt their very existence as children right before the draft. How will they continue with their lives? Only reading this book will reveal the heartfelt message behind the hauntingly beautiful prose.
- Chris, Grade 8, CSCL
