This is a story of how a young American teenager copes when her idolised father goes to fight with the US Army in Iraq. Although set in the early 21st century, the story has a strangely old fashioned atmosphere reminiscent of small town 1960's America. The characterisation is good and the mother/daughter relationship is very well done. An enjoyable, although serious and sad book which I think might appeal more to teenagers than to adults.

My soul lifts up, she thinks. My soul lifts up .... Where did that phrase come from and why is it popping into her head now? The moon, the sky, the possibility of a soul, the miles, the oceans, Matt, trying not to worry, getting through the days believing he'll come home, believing he'll be okay. It's all a prayer, she realizes, every breath, every day. Come home to me. Come home.