Healer of the Water Monster

By: Brian Young

Narrated by: Shaun Taylor-Corbett

Brian Young’s powerful debut novel tells of a seemingly ordinary Navajo boy who must save the life of a Water Monster—and comes to realize he’s a hero at heart.

When Nathan goes to visit his grandma, Nali, at her mobile summer home on the Navajo reservation, he knows he’s in for a pretty uneventful summer, with no electricity or cell service. Still, he loves spending time with Nali and with his uncle Jet, though it’s clear when Jet arrives that he brings his problems with him.

One night, while lost in the nearby desert, Nathan finds someone extraordinary: a Holy Being from the Navajo Creation Story—a Water Monster—in need of help.

Now Nathan must summon all his courage to save his new friend. With the help of other Navajo Holy Beings, Nathan is determined to save the Water Monster, and to support Uncle Jet in healing from his own pain.

The Heartdrum imprint centers a wide range of intertribal voices, visions, and stories while welcoming all young readers, with an emphasis on the present and future of Indian Country and on the strength of young Native heroes. In partnership with We Need Diverse Books.

Supplemental enhancement PDF accompanies the audiobook.

Excellent Story!

I loved this story! the Author/Narrator was great delivering the emotions through his story telling.

Nathan!

Navajo friends recommended this author to me & I am head over heels for the storytelling and the blending of tradition and current issues. I am invested, Nathan has an Inupiaq Auntie in me! I can see him becoming a scientist & helping remediate polluted land for the Navajo and across Indian country, as a healer and Medicine Man, as an amazing parent, and as a leader! Thank you Brian Young- very much looking forward to all of your storytelling creations.

Delightful

A skillful, imaginative, smart story that speaks deep truths to many ages and cultures.

Very interesting!

I really enjoyed the spiritual aspect of this book. I also enjoyed the conflict between those who believe and those who don't.

Indigenous YA gem

As a Native woman, I wish there had been more stories like this! In the author notes, Brian Young writes that this is exactly why he wrote this story. Healer of the Water Monster is amazing and filled with so many relatable hopes, obstacles, and lessons that that will encourage our Native youth to keep presevering. Brian Young bise: (thank you)