The Healer, by Donna Freitas

Marlena Oliveira has—mysteriously, miraculously—been given the power to heal all kinds of ailments.

People around the world believe she is a saint. But it all comes at a price. Because of her power, she’ll never be able to live a normal life. And the older she gets, the more trapped she feels.

Then she meets Finn, a boy who makes her want to fall in love. For the first time, she begins to doubt her power—and herself. Is her gift worth all she must give up to keep it? And who would—or could—she be without it?

 

 

“[The Healer] shows how divinity is accessible to everyone through the power of love.” (Booklist)

“The themes of faith and forgiveness are strong, and Freitas makes a solid argument that spiritualism and science are not necessarily mutually exclusive.” (Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books)

“With a deep sense of longing and a beautiful coming-of-age undercurrent, Freitas presents a stark and emotional tale. This delicately crafted, heartfelt novel speaks to the rewards and challenges of creating one’s own identity.” (Publishers Weekly)