"The Things a Brother Knows" by Dana Reinhardt is a poignant and emotional novel that explores the strained relationship between two brothers, Levi and Boaz, as they navigate the aftermath of Boaz's return from serving in the military.
Boaz has just returned from a tour of duty in the Middle East, and his family, especially Levi, is eager to have him back. However, Boaz is not the same person he was before he left. He is withdrawn, haunted by his experiences, and struggling with the weight of the memories he carries.
Levi, who has always looked up to his older brother, is determined to understand what Boaz went through and help him heal. As Boaz retreats into himself, Levi becomes increasingly frustrated and desperate to reconnect with him. In an attempt to understand his brother, Levi embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about Boaz's deployment and the events that shaped him.
As Levi digs deeper into Boaz's past, he discovers secrets that challenge his perception of his brother and their relationship. Along the way, both brothers confront their own fears, regrets, and misconceptions, and gradually begin to understand and accept each other in new ways.
"The Things a Brother Knows" is a powerful exploration of family, identity, and the impact of war on individuals and their relationships. Reinhardt's writing is poignant and heartfelt, capturing the complexities of brotherhood and the challenges of coming to terms with the past. The novel delves into themes of trauma, forgiveness, and the healing power of empathy, offering a moving and thought-provoking read.