I really like the author but can't wait to read the book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I love a novel that lingers. I read a lot as a job hazard, which often means once I finally close the cover on a book I generally leave it behind and mentally move on to the next title on my list. But some books won't let me move on right away, as the characters keep calling to me and my mind keeps replaying their stories. This is one of those books. --- I nearly gave this five stars due to my emotional engagement and the tangible nature of the characters, but in some ways it was almost too perfect--the pacing and gradual reveal of information, the timing of character interactions, even the flaws and imperfections of the characters all felt a little too carefully crafted in a way that made things seem less natural and original. Still, it was very good writing and storytelling, enough so that I'll gladly give it four-and-a-half stars. --- This is the story of a young trauma survivor dealing with the collapse of his family after his older brother did . . . something horrific. There is anger and guilt, social isolation, and more, all very real and believable. It's a good read that creates empathy.

This book won a 2012 Governor General's Literary award.