Super Short Summary

Peace Breaks Out by John Knowles, a companion to A Separate Peace, follows Pete Hallam, a WWII veteran who returns to Devon School to teach and seek solace. Instead, he finds violence between two students, Wexford and Eric Hochschwender. Their tumultuous conflict, set against the backdrop of post-war disillusionment, escalates to tragic consequences despite Hallam's efforts to mediate. The novel delves into themes of post-war trauma, nationalism, and the harsh dynamics of power and betrayal among youth.