GREAT FALLS, by Steve Watkins

The story: A boy and his brother go on a camping trip--but not just any trip, and not just any brother. Jeremy has done three tours in Afghanistan, and it's definitely done something to him. When he grabs Shane for an unexpected canoe adventure, it sounds harmless enough - but Jeremy keeps cleaning that assault rifle, keeps avoiding the doctor for a wound gone septic, keeps pretending that everything is fine at home..and by the time Shane wises up enough to make a stand, it's way too late for a happy ending.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language R; Violence PG-13; Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance Abuse R; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (PTSD, emotionally abusive parenting, drug abuse, mental illness) R; overall rating R - best for grades 9-up.

Liz's comments: A commentary on how the country treats (or doesn't treat) those with PTSD, there's also enough blame to go around for our love of football despite the damage it does. Watkins ratchets up the suspense steadily, and all the portents of impending doom don't go to waste. A difficult, timely, important read--but not for MS. Keep it for the older kids.