Lycanthropy and Other Chronic Illnesses: A Novel

In this debut young adult novel, "Priya and the Werewolf" follows Priya, a Stanford premed student diagnosed with chronic Lyme disease, who steals her family car to check on her online pen pal, Brigid, who may be a werewolf. Their friendship is tested as Brigid's condition worsens, forcing them to reckon with their own ideas of what it means to be normal.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2021
Publisher: Quirk Books

In this captivating debut young adult novel, author Emily Henry weaves a tale that blends humor, heartwarming moments, and a touch of mystery. Set against the backdrop of Stanford University, where Priya diligently pursues her premed dreams, her world is turned upside down when she receives a diagnosis of chronic Lyme disease during her sophomore year. This unexpected turn of events forces her to return to her loving but overbearing family in New Jersey, leaving her questioning if she will ever be able to reclaim the life she once knew.

However, amidst the challenges, Priya finds solace in her online pen pal, Brigid, and the vibrant community of individuals who share their experiences with chronic illnesses through the virtual support group known as "oof ouch my bones." These online connections provide a source of laughter, camaraderie, and understanding, offering a much-needed escape from the daily struggles of living with chronic conditions.

But when Brigid suddenly goes offline, Priya embarks on a daring mission to check on her friend. Driven by a sense of urgency, she steals the family car and ventures to Pennsylvania, where she encounters a creature that defies her expectations. As Priya delves deeper into the mystery surrounding Brigid's disappearance, she begins to piece together an impossible but undeniable truth: the creature may be a werewolf, and Brigid may be its host.

Through their friendship, Priya and Brigid are forced to confront their own notions of what it means to be normal. As Brigid's condition worsens, their bond deepens, and they are challenged in ways they never could have imagined. They must navigate the complexities of their friendship, confront their fears, and embrace their uniqueness, all while dealing with the societal pressures and expectations that come with chronic illness.

"The Wolf and the Woodsman" is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the power of friendship, the resilience of the human spirit, and the complexities of chronic illness. With its engaging narrative, memorable characters, and heartfelt portrayal of the human experience, this novel is sure to resonate with readers of all ages.

In conclusion, "The Wolf and the Woodsman" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys young adult literature, explores the depths of human connection, or is interested in understanding the challenges faced by individuals with chronic illnesses. Emily Henry's debut novel is a testament to her talent as a storyteller and her ability to touch the hearts of her readers with her poignant and relatable prose.

Weight: 364g
Dimension: 134 x 204 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781683692324
Edition number: International ed