The Impossible Knife of Memory

The Impossible Knife of Memory is a realistic fiction novel for young adult readers written by Laurie Halse Anderson and published in 2014. Anderson is a multiple award-winning author of young adult fiction, including the novels Speak and Chains. Anderson’s novels often discuss difficult topics in a way that is appropriate for younger audiences. The Impossible Knife of Memory is narrated by Hayley, a high school student whose father is haunted by war. Hayley and her father struggle to survive their pasts and their memories. In showing Hayley’s experiences adjusting to life in high school and watching her father’s mental health crisis unfold, the novel shows the power of memory, the trauma of war, and the complexity of families.

A New York Times best seller, the novel was also longlisted for the National Book Award and named Best Young Adult Book of 2014 by Publishers Weekly and The School Library Journal. This study guide refers to the 2014 edition published by Viking.

Content warning: The Impossible Knife of Memory contains discussions of substance use, suicide, and violence.

Plot Summary

The Impossible Knife of Memory is narrated by Hayley Kincain, a 17-year-old high school student. The novel is the story of her senior year of high school.