Before, Part 1, p. 4 - 21 Summary

This novel for young people chronicles the eventful first year at private school for teenaged Miles Halter. As Miles makes new friends and discovers an interest in philosophy, he also discovers important answers to fundamental questions of human existence and equally fundamental truths about the natures of both loyalty and love.

one hundred thirty six days before - In first person narration, Miles describes his mother's elaborate preparations for a going away party (see "Quotes," p. 3) which is ultimately attended by only two people (see "Quotes," p. 4). After the guests leave, Miles' parents ask him whether his lack of friends is the reason he wants to go to boarding school, the same school his father attended, and he says no, explaining that he wants to go because of the last words of a famous writer (see "Quotes...