55 pages 1 hour read

Laurie Halse Anderson

The Impossible Knife of Memory

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2014

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Laurie Halse Anderson's young adult novel, The Impossible Knife of Memory, high school senior Hayley Kincain navigates re-adjusting to traditional school life while coping with her father Andy's severe PTSD from his military service. Together, they face internal and external battles as Hayley builds new relationships and confronts long-buried memories, revealing the profound effects of trauma and the strength of family bonds. The novel discusses substance use, suicide, and violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Laurie Halse Anderson's The Impossible Knife of Memory is highly praised for its realistic portrayal of PTSD and the struggles of a teenage daughter caring for her war-veteran father. The characters are compelling and the narrative is emotionally resonant. However, some critics find the pacing uneven and the resolution somewhat predictable. Overall, it's a poignant and impactful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Impossible Knife of Memory?

Readers who enjoy emotionally intense narratives and themes of trauma, healing, and resilience will be captivated by Laurie Halse Anderson's The Impossible Knife of Memory. Fans of John Green's The Fault in Our Stars and Jay Asher's Thirteen Reasons Why will find a compelling and relatable story that resonates deeply with young adult fiction enthusiasts.

RecommendedReading Age

14-18years

Lexile Level

HL720L

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Modern Classic Fiction

Romance

Topics

Mental Illness

Military / War

Themes

Relationships: Family

Identity: Mental Health

Society: War