The Healing Spell
Scholastic Press / 2010
"An incantational tale of Cajun magic and gators in the bayou and of the love and silence between mother and daughter." —Richard Peck, Newbery Medalist
"Kimberly Griffiths Little's The Healing Spell is an atmospheric, affecting story of hope and devotion, as elegant and mysterious as bayou country itself." —Cynthia Leitich Smith
Eleven-year-old Livie is keeping a secret and it’s crushing her. She knows she is responsible for her mother’s coma, but she can’t tell anyone. And it’s up to her to find a way to wake her mamma before anyone uncovers the truth of what really happened.
Added to the list of Livie’s problems is being stuck in the middle of three sisters, trying to hide a forbidden pet alligator, and possibly disappointing her daddy, whom she loves more than anyone else. Livie feels like an outsider and prefers the solitude of the lush bayou to her ever-crowded home. But she can’t run away from her troubles, and as she struggles to find her place within her family, Livie learns a lot about the powers of faith and redemption. Is her heart big enough to heal her mamma and bring her family back together?
Kimberley Griffiths Little’s beautiful, vivid writing brings Livie’s lush world on the bayou to brilliant life, and depicts Livie’s journey with a sensitivity and wisdom that’s sure to resonate with readers of all ages.
