The Finishing School

The Finishing School by Gail Godwin, published by Viking on February 18, 1985, is a first edition novel comprising 322 pages. This work centers on forty-year-old actress Justin Stokes as she reflects on a pivotal summer at the age of fourteen, highlighting her relationship with Ursula DeVane, an older woman who significantly influenced that time in her life.

Readers will find a narrative that explores themes of memory and personal growth, set against the backdrop of Justin’s formative years. The story delves into the complexities of their relationship, offering insights into the dynamics between youth and experience. With its focus on fiction set in the United States, The Finishing School presents a thoughtful examination of how past experiences shape one’s identity.