The Book
Everything about Roger Peyrefitte’s 1944 novel Les Amitiés particulières.
Author
Roger Peyrefitte (1907–2000) was a French novelist (formerly a diplomat). Les Amitiés particulières (1944) was his debut and remains for many his signature book.
The story unfolds in two distinct time periods: the rigid world of 1920s Catholic boarding school education where Peyrefitte sets his narrative, and the tumultuous final year of World War II when the book emerged into a France desperate for authentic voices. This exploration examines how both historical moments shaped the novel’s creation and reception.
A comprehensive look at the novel’s central relationships, psychological complexity, and enduring themes. From the claustrophobic boarding school setting to the tragic consequences of institutional repression, this analysis reveals why Peyrefitte’s story continues to resonate with readers across generations without spoiling the reading experience.
This page tracks notable editions and translations. If you know of an edition we are missing, please send a note.
Selected editions:
• 1944 (printed 1943) – France – Jean Vigneau. First edition. Large hardback. 1,999 numbered copies were made.
• 1951 – France – Flammarion. First Flammarion edition, after buying the rights from the original publisher (Jean Vigneau).
• 1953 – France – Flammarion. Two-volume illustrated set with 24 original artworks by Gaston Goor. Only 740 numbered copies were made.
• 2005 – France – Éditions Textes Gais. Latest known French print edition, with a new preface by Alexandre de Villiers (executor of Peyrefitte’s estate).
Selected covers
A small gallery of covers from various editions.
First edition, 1944.
Limited edition illustrated by Gaston Goor, 1953.
First English translation, 1958.
Current availability
Out of print in French, English, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese and other languages. In French, the only current edition we can find is a French e-book from Éditions Textes Gais.
How to read
Les Amitiés particulières has been largely out of print for over a decade, making it increasingly difficult to access through official channels. While we encourage supporting publishers and honoring the literary legacy of this important 1943 work, authorized distribution remains severely limited.
Potentially Official Sources:
- Furet du Nord – French ebook edition (Textes Gais, 2005)
Secondary Market Sources:
- AbeBooks – Used physical copies (various publishers and conditions)
- eBay – Vintage paperback and hardcover editions (availability varies)
Alternative Sources:
- Archive.org – English translation by Edward Hyams with illustrations by Gaston Goor
- Scribd – Spanish translation (“Las Amistades Particulares”)
- Lectulandia – Spanish digital edition
- Various library digital collections (check your local library’s digital resources)
Note: We’d prefer to direct readers to official sources where publishers and the author’s estate are compensated, but from our research, no major publisher currently offers this title in print or digital format in English, Spanish or other languages. The French ebook from Textes Gais appears to be the most legitimate current option for those who read French. If you represent the estate or know of legitimate publication options, please contact us and we’ll update this page immediately. This influential work of French literature deserves proper availability that supports continued literary preservation.
From page to screen
Twenty years after the novel captivated wartime readers, director Jean Delannoy brought the story to cinema in 1964. This examination covers the adaptation process, casting choices, filming at the medieval Royaumont Abbey, and how the film remained remarkably faithful to Peyrefitte’s vision while making necessary cinematic adjustments.
(Blog post coming soon)