John Knowles

The story of two roommates at Yale, one working toward a future as a writer, the other, scion of Russian nobility, wooing a wealthy young woman.

"The distinction of John Knowles' first book, A Separate Peace (1959) presents something of a second novel nemesis, for the reviewer as well. Certainly, over and above the writer's definite talent, the books have very little in common; for the classic conflict of the first, and the austerity of a New England boys' school background, this substitutes a certain irresolution (which may be no more than that of its central character) and spends a summer season in Antibes with peripheral people, on the beaches, in the bars. The sensuous, enervating fascination of the life there has a tremendous sharpness. Less definite is Nick Petrovich who tells this story and, in spite of the first person, retains a certain anonymity. Idling, he is also brooding over his wife Liliane, who now goes off with a wealthy Fasciat count- an old lover. The Algerian problem is never too far away "water skiing and ideology in the daytime, the cha cha cha and assassinations at night"". And although the Count maintains that ""wine and hashish will never mix", Nick does become involved if only through Jeannot, a gentle, guileful Arab who moves in on him as his servant. Djian-like Jeannot appears, hovers, disappears, but when he goes off to assume his obligation at his father's death, Nick too has learned through him that one must have something to right for and live for... it is all- at the moment-immensely alive and immediate, and long after the small moral directive is forgotten, this special background, glistening with luxury and laxity, will be remembered. It also provides a cautionary case in point for a softshouldered civilization which too may have to find some larger commitment."--Kirkus

"Some memories can be forgotten ... Others won't ever go away. For renowned actor Sir Mungo, his quiet home village in Devon provides the perfect retreat. Close by are his brother and his wife, and the rural location makes his home the ideal getaway for his old friends in London. Among those is Kit, who comes to stay for the summer, bringing with her a letter from her first and only love, Jake, and a heart in turmoil. Years have passed since they last saw each other, and now he has written to Kit asking to meet again. As the summer unfolds, secrets are uncovered that will shatter the sleepy community, and even tear a family apart. But those involved soon realize that the only way to move forward might be to confront the past.."--

Gene Forrester looks back fifteen years to a World War II year in which he and his best friend were roommates in a New hampshire boarding school.

"Spreading Fires analyses the context, history, theology and praxis of the first Pentecostal missions in the first two decades of the twentieth century. Based largely on primary sources, it explores the social and historical context in which Pentecostalism arose, the revival, holiness and healing movements associated with it in the late nineteenth century, and the influence of colonialism on Pentecostal missions. It traces the stories of Pentecostal missionaries and 'native workers' in Africa, China, India and other parts of Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean." "This comprehensive and contextual history of the early Pentecostal mission is ideal for students looking to source primary material and fully understand the context and implications of the most important missionary movement of the twentieth century. To aid learning the book features photographs, maps and diagrams throughout."--Jacket.

An ex-infantryman and P.O.W. comes to Devon School, a boys prep school, to teach and rest from the war in 1945. At Devon School after World War II, Pete Hallam finds violence and tragecy among his students.