The Prison Healer

A large part of Kiva’s survival journey involves accepting help and support from others, rather than relying only on herself to survive. For many years, Kiva believed that isolation would protect her from pain, but she now learns that relying on others can make her stronger. As the novel unfolds, Kiva grows closer to Jaren and Naari and learns that their help and support can help her to endure more than she could ever withstand alone. These connections provide her with solidarity and emotional support, which reinforces the idea that individuals are stronger together.

The importance of both creating and committing to a sense of community is vividly portrayed through Kiva’s experiences as a healer for her fellow inmates, for even when she is limited by her belief in isolating herself, she cultivates bonds with certain people and finds creative ways to withstand the demoralizing environment in which she has long been trapped. As the novel explores the harsh realities of life within the prison’s walls, the hostile environment of Zalindov serves as a backdrop for Kiva’s personal journey and her growing awareness of the people who value her strength and are invested in helping her to survive.