The nest - Paul Jennings

At the heart of this novel is the enigma of a mother who deserted her baby and husband. Young Robin Gordon lives in the Victorian high country with his dad and dreams of escaping to a world where he isn't constantly blamed for his mother's departure. He wants to be a published author. He wants to be able to tell Charlie that he loves her. But at the core of his life is his daily battle with murderous impulses. Could Robin really kill his father? Will he discover the truth behind his mother's betrayal?

Each section of the novel is tied together with the character Robin's short stories and helps the reader see inside the troubled teen's mind.

It's not the best YA novel I've read but it is certainly an interesting change from Jenning's usual humourous fare.