The Impossible Knife of Memory by Laurie Halse Anderson

I've always heard good things about Laurie Halse Anderson's books. But I'd never read one. So when I spotted The Impossible Knife of Memory on the library shelf, I decided to give her a try. I'm so glad I did. The Impossible Knife of Memory was beautiful, well-told, and moving. Definitely will be reading more of Halse Anderson's books.

It's Hayley's senior year. Hayley and her dad have been nomadic for the last few years. Hayley's been riding shotgun in his truck as they toured the United States. But suddenly Hayley's dad decided to bring her back to his hometown. Hayley's not thrilled to have settled down but hopes it will help bring her dad some peace. Hayley's dad is a recent war vet and his PTSD keeps it hard for him to hold a job or much else. Hayley just wants to make it through school so she can try to help her dad.

I liked Hayley. She's not concerned about "normal" teen things dates, dances, clothing. But instead she worries about food, having enough money, and her dad's declining mental health. She finds it hard to make friends because most other kids of more "normal" concerns but she finds a couple of kids (Grace and Finn) who both have issues of their own. But Halse Anderson doesn't just make the book about the issues. She crafts fantastic characters who have these messy lives and gives them a chance to work it all out. Plus I was a fan of the solid ending.

I look forward to reading more by Halse Anderson. The Impossible Knife of Memory is a book I won't soon forget. I even teared up a bit at the end. Such a rarity for me! Others who shared their thoughts on The Impossible Knife of Memory: Candace's Book Blog, Twenty by Jenny, and The  Midnight Garden.