When I realized that the story takes place in New Hampshire, I was amused. Partly because-due to my
ignorance of world geography-I had no idea where New Hampshire was. The second thing I noticed
was the time period in which the story takes place in. The story is set in the year 1942, during the early
years of World War 2. Aside from the fact that the events described in the book do indeed seem to be of
an earlier time, the words and terminology that the author uses also suggest that the story does not
necessarily set itself in present time even if there is no pre-existing knowledge of the book. I found this
refreshing and interesting, seeing the world through the eyes of a person set in a time not so long
before our own. The main characters (Phineas and Gene) presented in the book are intriguing to say the
least, and more so is the relationship between them. The two main characters appear to be best friends.
However, from what has been read, it is clear that their relationship-like any-is not without flaw. There
seems to be something between them; something that pulls them together while at the same time tears
them apart. So far what it appears to be is an unspoken understanding or acknowledgement of a rivalry
as well as jealousy between the two. However, the story is told from the narrative voice of Gene, who
over analyzes everything. With that said, the reader's idea of Finny's entire being is dependent on
Gene's perception of him. For all I know, Gene could have misinterpreted all of Finny's motives up until
now and therefore be completely wrong about him. Coincidentally the personalities of the two best
friends are completely opposite in contrast. Gene appears to be introverted and quiet, excelling in areas
of academic relevance. In comparison, Phineas (a.k.a. Finny) is outgoing and charismatic who is naturally
gifted in sports and activities involving athleticism. Throughout the book, I have noticed companionship,
deceit, admiration, jealousy, and hate between the two main characters, Finny and Gene. What comes
out of this is the complicated relationship between the two friends, leaving the reader contemplating
the motives behind their actions and words. Overall the book started off very slow, but the significantly
large contrast between the supposedly best friends alone was enough to prevent me from putting the
book down. The writer talks very descriptively, and in such a way that occasionally a particular line or
speech must be read over several times in order to grasp it. Imagery is something that I am constantly
aware of while reading this novel, and I am curious as to how the relationship between the two of them
will develop, and also how the characters will develop individually.
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