Official Review: The Healer's Art by Flint Miller

[Kourtney Bradley]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Healer's Art" by Flint Miller.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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No one's experience with depression is easy, especially that of a young girl who should be enjoying her senior year of high school rather than worrying about coping with symptoms of depression that no one else seems to understand. The Healer’s Art is a Young Adult fiction novel written by Flint Miller and published in January 2019. At just over 200 pages, I was able to successfully read the story in two short sittings, while still leaving me time to ponder over the intricate details that surrounded the story and the real-life impacts of depression.

The main character in the story is Emma. Emma is a senior in high school and seems to be struggling lately and has no one in her corner. While trying to cope with her brother’s unknown illness and seeing her family struggle to keep it together, she is also battling with a relentless bully, slipping grades, and her own personal struggle with feeling lost. Although Emma has only been able to really open up to one person, her best friend Hannah, things start to change when Elijah comes into her life and leaves her no choice but to accept his friendship and shoulder to cry on.

The themes in The Healer’s Art remained dark for a majority of the story. While worrying about Emma’s mental health, I was also observant of the physical health of her brother. Along with those two priority issues, Emma’s family and home life seemed to be suffering under the pressure of her parents’ attempts to keep everything in order. Emma’s story includes some highs and some lows, but ultimately, shares the struggle that millions with depression suffer from on a daily basis.

The editing for the novel was seamless, as I found no errors while reading. I was pleased with the pleasant way the story flowed from one idea and situation to another, while also keeping a steady pace for the structure of the premise. It’s clear that while the author is telling a fictional story, he is also attempting to raise some recognition for the concept of depression and just how substantial the impact can be on those suffering.

With a story that left my thoughts flowing after turning the last page, I’m pleased to give A Healer’s Art a rating of 4 out of 4 stars. I would gladly recommend the story to young adult readers, and also those who may have struggled with depression at one time or another. Although it’s easy to feel alone during hard times that come along with depression and anxiety, the author is careful to show that there is always someone who cares, you just have to allow them a chance to show you.

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The Healer's Art
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[Dee_218]

Thank you for this. One thing I have learnt having suffered myself is that you are never truly alone and you will need to be extremely courageous. Thank you for your eloquently written review.

[kandscreeley]

This one is so important. How many teens out there struggle mentally, but they don't tell anyone because they're afraid or don't know how? This could really connect with them. Thanks!

[Prisallen]

I agree that this is a very important problem that many teens and adults are facing. I'm glad the author is bringing attention to the issue. Great review!

[Shadiid]

It is sad to read that Emma has had to deal with so many stressors. Unfortunately, many teenagers go through the most challenging and difficult states in their lives that committing suicide becomes the only answer to their cry for peace. I hope like Emma , they find comfort and hope in venting to someone.

[Savannah90000]

It’s extremely important to acknowledge the hurt ones. The ones that carry more pain, I completely agree. This review is a chance for an open eye. Wonderful!

[Ngozi Onyibor]

Many people don't understand mental illness. Some believe the sufferer is making it up. It's often erroneously believed that if you have food, clothing and shelter you have it better than most and therefore have no reason to be depressed.

I must applaud the author for shedding light on depression and the struggle a sufferer goes through.

[danielleamy]

It’s clear that while the author is telling a fictional story, he is also attempting to raise some recognition for the concept of depression and just how substantial the impact can be on those suffering.

This sounds like an important book that many teens or young adults could find useful. From your review, I'm sure I'd like to read this book. Thanks for your recommendation, I'll add this to my list.

[Mbrooks2518]

Great review! Although I'm not interested in reading it, books about mental health, especially involving teenagers, are very important.

[Helene_2008]

It sounds like this book has a wonderful message for readers. I hope it makes it into the hands of those who need to read its words.

[Alys Sterk]

Sounds like a good book! I enjoy reading about teenagers, what they think, what goes into the choices they make, etc. All of those problems you mentioned were in the book are unfortunately pretty common in today's high schools.