Summary Of Impossible Knife Of Memory By Laurie Halse Anderson

The well-known author, Laurie Halse Anderson, is known for using sensitivity and humor in her writing to tackle tough subjects. A review from David Mowery states that “Laurie Halse Anderson masterfully gives voice to teen characters undergoing transformations in their lives through their honesty and perseverance while finding the courage to be true to themselves.” Her book, released in 2014, Impossible Knife of Memory, is no exception. Most of Anderson’s books center around a struggling character that has to deal with internal conflicts as well as their loved one’s issues. Another best seller, Chains, is about a young slave who has to decide whether she is willing to spy on her masters while still trying to take care of her sister. As Andy and Hayley, two main character in The Impossible knife of Memory, struggle to cope with their reality, Anderson shows us the importance of

Throughout the whole book Hayley never gives up on her dad, even when he seems completely hopeless she does whatever she can to help him. Although Hayley is just a child she makes extreme sacrifices for her dad because he is her family and she loves him. This is shown in one of the last scenes in the book, at the quarry. Andy has left Hayley a note saying he loves her and she is better off without him. When she realizes the meaning of this note she drives to the quarry without thinking twice. There Hayley stands on the edge of the cliff, risking her own life and tries to talk her dad out of jumping by saying she will jump too. “‘You’re still alive!’ I screamed. ‘You have to try harder because we love you!’” (pg. 384) This scene is so significant to the overall theme and main idea of the book. Hayley risked her own life to save her dad’s and even after he gave up on himself she still believed. This scene reiterates the overall theme of the book that you do not give up on