Nancy Werlin's novel "Impossible" explores the themes of healing and witchcraft through the character of Lucy Scarborough. Lucy discovers that she is a descendant of a witch who made a deal with a mysterious creature and is now cursed to bear a daughter who will also be cursed. Throughout the novel, Lucy struggles to break the curse by seeking out a healer named Nat who promises to help her. The narrative follows Lucy as she discovers the extent of her powers and the lengths she is willing to go to protect her unborn child. Werlin's portrayal of Lucy as both a healer and a witch raises questions about the boundaries between good and evil, and the complexities of power. The main idea of Werlin's novel is the exploration of the healing and witchcraft through the character of Lucy Scarborough.
After eleven young-adult novels, best-selling and award-winning author Nancy Werlin casts a brilliant new spell in a middle-grade historical fantasy for fans of classic fare.
Nancy Werlin s first story for middle-grade readers tackles and transcends traditional fantasy tropes can a young woman gifted with magic learn to manage her powers and claim her strength without violence. Werlin s gentle reflection on trauma and healing, the ethics of power, and seemingly dual natures explores Sylvie s place in the world and her relationship to those she cares for.
The main idea of Werlin's novel is the exploration of the healing and witchcraft through the character of Lucy Scarborough. The novel delves into the idea of a curse that has been placed on Lucy and her family, and Lucy's quest to break this curse with the help of a healer named Nat. The novel ultimately raises questions about the nature of power and the blurred lines between good and evil.
Healer and Witch (Hardcover)
Nancy Werlin’s first story for middle-grade readers tackles and transcends traditional fantasy tropes: can a young woman gifted with magic learn to manage her powers—and claim her strength—without violence? Sylvie and her mother and grandmother are beloved, trusted healers in their medieval French village, though some whisper that fifteen-year-old Sylvie and her grand-mere deal in more than herbs and medicines. Perhaps they’re a bit . . . witchy? After her grandmother dies, and an attempt to use magic to heal her mother’s grief brooks tragic consequences, Sylvie leaves her village in search of a teacher. The journey subjects her to strange alliances, powerful temptations, danger, and deceit. In the end, there may be only one wise woman Sylvie can trust in a world that would define her limits: herself. Beautifully crafted, this quietly powerful work for younger readers assures a whole new audience for an established author.
About the Author
Nancy Werlin (she/her) is the author of eleven books for teens, including Zoe Rosenthal Is Not Lawful Good, the National Book Award Finalist The Rules of Survival, the Edgar Award winner The Killer's Cousin, and the New York Times bestseller Impossible. Nancy Werlin lives outside Boston.
Praise For…
Werlin’s first foray into middle grade is a thrilling and suspenseful experience; there are twisting reveals and adventure aplenty, though the story isn’t afraid to stop for lovely moments of quiet contemplation and recollection along the way. A budding, respectful romance and hints of deeper powers will have readers hoping for a sequel. It’s well worth joining kind and clever Sylvie on her harrowing journey of discovery.
—Booklist (starred review)
A refreshingly honest and elegantly written work of historical fantasy.
—The Horn Book (starred review)
A delightful page-turner that will entice readers of historical fiction and fantasy alike. It’s a refreshing stand-alone novel with a resilient protagonist who realizes the greatest magic of all is being true to oneself. . . . Thoroughly enjoyable and engaging, filled with magic, mystery, strength, and love.
—Kirkus Reviews
An introspective historical fantasy . . Werlin’s gentle reflection on trauma and healing, the ethics of power, and seemingly dual natures explores Sylvie’s place in the world and her relationship to those she cares for.
—Publishers Weekly
Gracefully explores themes of identity, family and belonging. . . Werlin (Zoe Rosenthal Is Not Lawful Good) brings compassion and complexity to her depictions of the relationships between characters, challenging standard notions of good and evil. . . . Although Werlin skillfully evokes Healer and Witch's period setting, Sylvie's journey of self-discovery and its accompanying themes of female empowerment are timeless.
—Shelf Awareness (starred review)
Against the backdrop of a turbulent era Nancy Werlin spins a sophisticated coming-of-age story in 'Healer & Witch,' a novel for readers ages 9-12 that is set in France. . . . a properly inventive, historically respectful story with a touch of magic (and romance) in its realism.
—The Wall Street Journal
- Juvenile Fiction / Historical / Medieval
- Juvenile Fiction / Fantasy & Magic
- Juvenile Fiction / Girls & Women
- Kobo eBook (March 21st, 2022): $8.99
- Paperback (September 12th, 2023): $8.99
Starred review for outstanding merit, 2023 The Best Books of the Year, 2023 Edition, Bank Street College of Education.
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Reviews for "The ethical dilemmas faced by a healer and witch in Nancy Werlin's novels."
1. John - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Healer and witch nancy werlin". The story felt incredibly rushed and underdeveloped. The characters were one-dimensional and lacked depth. I couldn't connect with any of them and found myself not caring about their fates. The writing style was also quite dull and uninspiring. Overall, this book did not live up to my expectations and I would not recommend it.
2. Sarah - 1 star - I found "Healer and witch nancy werlin" to be a complete waste of time. The plot was predictable and unoriginal. The world-building was poorly executed, leaving many unanswered questions. The dialogue was clunky and unnatural. The romance aspect felt forced and lacked chemistry. I struggled to finish this book and regretted even picking it up. Save yourself the trouble and avoid this one.
3. Mark - 2 stars - I had high hopes for "Healer and witch nancy werlin", but unfortunately, it fell flat for me. The pacing was all over the place, with sudden jumps in time that were confusing and disrupted the flow of the story. The main character was supposed to be a healer but was constantly in need of saving herself, which didn't make sense. The magic system was poorly explained and left me feeling disconnected from the fantasy elements. Overall, I was left disappointed by this book.