“Brian Young is a genuine delight. He is an adept and responsive speaker, engaging and accessible to young people, librarians, teachers and adults. The passion and earnestness of his characters comes through as he interweaves storytelling with the hopes, dreams, and fears of all of us.”— Brenda Thomson, Executive Director of Arizona Humanities
“Sometimes you pick up a book you’re really not sure you’re going to like, and you end up loving it. HEALER OF THE WATER MONSTER is one of those. Such a beautiful story–partly because the character is so sweet and complex (brave and generous sometimes, fearful and selfish others) and partly because the issues he has to deal with cross so many borders, from alcoholism and family dysfunction to trying to navigate the spirit world to save a water monster. Highly, highly recommend this book!”
— Chris Abouzeid, Belmont Books, Belmont, MA
“Gentle, complex characters and flawed, loving human relationships lend depth to Young’s worlds-spanning novel.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“The deeply grounded and original perspective of this story brings readers into both the worlds of Navajo blessing songs, rain songs, and traditional healing and everyday family relationships. Hands readers a meaningful new take on family love.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“Young’s narrative weaves traditional folklore, language, and mythos with modern emotion to craft a poignant tale of family, friendship, and protecting what you love most.” — Booklist
“Visibility is of utmost importance, and books like this one deserve warm spotlights, everywhere.” — American Indians in Children’s Literature