Amazon Editors' YA Book Club discussion

I know we've already got some discussion going on the main July book pick topic but thought it might be good to have a separate one just for everyone's thoughts as they finish or have a section they want to talk about.
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I was totally caught up by the way Laurie Halse Anderson gave us a window on what it would be like to have a parent with PTSD. It's kind of like teens who have an alcoholic parent, always on high alert for the signs of trouble and trying to keep things together but also trying to find their own identity and path.

I've read a lot of both fiction and nonfiction about the veteran's post-war struggles and how that can effect their spouse and family overall, but this is the first thing I've read that directly addresses the experience of kids, particularly teens.

I thought PTSD was so well-done --the best part of the book by far. I was annoyed, when I started reading, by the cliche of her writing lines in detention. They don't do that at the high school where I work -- I doubt there are many if any that do. (Her depiction of high school annoyed me in Speak, too).
But her amazingly real characters and the believable relationships made the story so intense. I got so involved and up tight, I had to quit reading several times.

There were so many fantastic aspects to this story. The depiction of Hayley's life dealing with her father's PTSD-induced alcoholism and violent rage was so vivid. And I love that the book leaves you feeling hopefully optimistic, but still not completely sure that Hayley's dad will be okay. I do feel that Hayley will come through everything okay though, even though she was apprehensive about leaving for college at the end.

My favorite part was the PTSD aspect, as well. So well done, right down to his returning girlfriend, Trish. I liked the conflicting feelings Hayley has toward her. And, of course, I loved Finn. Where were boys like him when I was in high school? I'm seeing more and more of the quirky-cool boyfriends in YA and, frankly, I'm a little jealous! And I can't forget my favorite quote: "You can only be brave if you're scared." Awesome and true.

I know a few folks on the other thread were talking about the a-little-too-good-to-be-true ending. I see their point, though I don't think it diminished any of the characters' growth and given what Hayley went through, I didn't mind so much. Plus it seemed clear her father had more healing to do.