96 pages • 3 hours read
Healer of the Water Monster
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Book Brief
368
Novel • Fiction
Navajo Reservation • Contemporary
2021
Middle grade
8-12 years
Super Short Summary
In Healer of the Water Monster by Brian Young, 11-year-old Navajo boy Nathan spends the summer at his grandmother's home on the reservation, where he encounters a sick water monster from Navajo mythology asking for help to restore rain to the desert, leading Nathan on a journey involving themes of family, nature, and heroism. This book contains mentions of substance abuse and suicidal ideation.
Fantastical
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Adventurous
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
1,663 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Brian Young’s Healer of the Water Monster captivates readers with its rich exploration of Navajo culture and mythology. The narrative is praised for its heartwarming themes and well-developed characters. However, some critics find the pacing uneven, which may hinder reader engagement at times. Overall, it offers a meaningful and educational experience for young readers.
Who Should Read Healer of the Water Monster?
Readers who cherish tales of Indigenous culture, magical realism, and deep family bonds will enjoy Healer of the Water Monster by Brian Young. Similar to The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich and Pet by Akwaeke Emezi, this book harmoniously blends tradition and modern challenges in a captivating juvenile fiction narrative.
1,663 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Pond
Pond
The friendly and loyal Water Monster who serves as a symbol of environmental devastation, he assists Nathan with his supernatural journey, creating stakes and developing themes of nature.
Nali
Nali
Nathan’s wise and loving grandmother teaches him about Navajo culture and family history, playing a significant part in his growth and understanding of nature and family.
Uncle Jet
Uncle Jet
Nathan's uncle, whose struggles with addiction and past trauma provide challenges that Nathan strives to help overcome, contributing to the novel’s exploration of family and healing.
Devin
Devin
A wise medicine man who provides guidance and support, helping Nathan connect with his Navajo culture while illustrating a positive male role model.
368
Novel • Fiction
Navajo Reservation • Contemporary
2021
Middle grade
8-12 years
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