“Brian gave an energetic and interesting presentation to our sixth graders. Students engaged with thoughtful questions about his Navajo tribe, Native American culture, and writing process. The photos and artifacts he shared, as well as speaking in Navajo, helped make valuable connections for students.” — White Plains School District, 2024
“Brian Young shares about his Diné (Navajo) culture in rich storytelling. He weaves together stories that might have slipped away if not written down, and Brian shares in a way that is not taboo to our culture and can segue into questions for further learning. For those not from our culture, he offers a window into our worldview, which is so important in bordertowns like Winslow, AZ, because so much of our community is Indigenous. Healer of the Water Monster and Heroes of the Water Monster can be used as a tool for bridging gaps in community and understanding. It was a treat to see them impact in our community by hosting Brian Young and by sharing his writing.” — Winslow Public Library, 2024
“The English department at NAU was thrilled to host author Brian Young; he is an engaging speaker who is funny, passionate, and compassionate. His knowledge of diverse literature and his commitment to Indigenous storytelling will have you mesmerized. The English department event with Brian Young was one of the best attended we have had in years; Brian brings people together across backgrounds and disciplinary interests. The NAU English department is committed to community engagement and celebrating diverse voices and Brian Young helped us do that in the best and most engaging ways!” — Northern Arizona University, 2023
“Brian Young is a genuine delight. He is an adept and responsive speaker, engaging and accessible to young people, librarians, teachers and adults. The passion and earnestness of his characters comes through as he interweaves storytelling with the hopes, dreams, and fears of all of us.”— Brenda Thomson, Executive Director of Arizona Humanities
“Sometimes you pick up a book you’re really not sure you’re going to like, and you end up loving it. HEALER OF THE WATER MONSTER is one of those. Such a beautiful story–partly because the character is so sweet and complex (brave and generous sometimes, fearful and selfish others) and partly because the issues he has to deal with cross so many borders, from alcoholism and family dysfunction to trying to navigate the spirit world to save a water monster. Highly, highly recommend this book!” — Chris Abouzeid, Belmont Books, Belmont, MA
“Gentle, complex characters and flawed, loving human relationships lend depth to Young’s worlds-spanning novel.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“The deeply grounded and original perspective of this story brings readers into both the worlds of Navajo blessing songs, rain songs, and traditional healing and everyday family relationships. Hands readers a meaningful new take on family love.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“Young’s narrative weaves traditional folklore, language, and mythos with modern emotion to craft a poignant tale of family, friendship, and protecting what you love most.” — Booklist
“Visibility is of utmost importance, and books like this one deserve warm spotlights, everywhere.” — American Indians in Children’s Literature
