Review of Healing Stone by Brock Booher
First, a disclaimer that I know the author, Brock. Does that sway my opinion of this book? Maybe. I purchased the book because I like him and wish him success as a writer. He is, however, a good story teller. Better than I would have guessed actually, I have a stack of books on the table next to my bed but curiosity forced Healing Stone to the top. As I completed my other book and dropped it to the floor I wondered if this one would be worth reading. Brock convinced someone to publish his book but could he really pull off a good story? Yep. First chapter was good, the accident with the dog is shocking to read, bad enough to waken Stone's healing powers. But they are healing powers that he can't control and that only cause more problems. Stone's parents are sincere and loving, each wanting what is best for both of their boys. All the characters feel like they are well established, with writing clues helping me think I had known them for more than a few hundred pages. Although I knew the book was set in the fifties I hadn't expected the stark depictions of poor blacks and some white people's treatment of them. I would say this book is aimed at teenage readers but there is nothing in it annoying to adults. There are great touches that share Stone's experience of being distracted by pretty girls and driving too fast along with chores on the farm and ice cream with friends. There are frequent references to good music. All the elements combine well to create a believable atmosphere in which a 17 year old boy tries to figure out how and why he can heal people.
