Children’s Book Week review
The Prison Healer by Lynette Noni
This book is notable for the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Book of the Year 2022 – Older Readers.
The prison healer is the first book in the most recent young adult (YA) series by Lynette Noni. This author has been recognised for her excellent work with awards including the Gold Inky Award and the ABIA Award for Small Publishers’ Children’s Book of the Year.
“Hope was a drug and Kiva, an addict.”
Kiva is a teenager, trying to survive the harsh conditions of Zalindov Prison and helping others as the prison healer. She has been imprisoned for ten years, with no chance of release but an ongoing hope of rescue, when two new patients arrive and change her future. Kiva must face ordeals by air, fire, water, and earth to save herself and those she cares about.
I really liked the characters in this story, especially Tipp and Naari. These two very different personalities each bring so much to the story and Kiva’s development. This book includes many of the elements of an excellent fantasy novel – plot twists, engaging characters and relationships, political conflict, action, adventure, and magical tournaments. The ending leaves readers hanging for the second book – which is available now.
Set in a prison that is basically a death camp, there are dark parts to this story so it is recommended for ages 14+
The first two books of Lynette Noni’s latest series are available to reserve by clicking the covers above, and we are eagerly awaiting the release of the third book later this year! If you prefer e-books, they are also available on the usual apps (not sure how to access our e-library? More info on our website!)
More by this author
Click on the covers below to reserve other great books by Lynette Noni. You can also learn more about this bestselling author on her website.
