Olivia Mead is a headstrong, independent girl—a suffragist—in an age that prefers its girls to be docile. It’s 1900 in Oregon, and Olivia’s father, concerned that she’s headed for trouble, convinces a stage mesmerist to try to hypnotize the rebellion out of her. But the hypnotist, an intriguing young man named Henri Reverie, gives her a terrible gift instead: she’s able to see people’s true natures, manifesting as visions of darkness and goodness, while also unable to speak her true thoughts out loud. These supernatural challenges only make Olivia more determined to speak her mind, and so she’s drawn into a dangerous relationship with the hypnotist and his mysterious motives, all while secretly fighting for the rights of women. Winters breathes new life into history once again with an atmospheric, vividly real story, including archival photos and art from the period throughout.
Praise for The Cure for Dreaming
"A smattering of period photos adds authenticity to this gripping, atmospheric story of mind control and self-determination."
--Kirkus Reviews
Praise
"A strong female protagonist, realistic dialogue, and well-written prose allow readers to become immersed in Olivia’s rather unique (and sometimes frightening) world."School Library Journal, Amanda C. Buschmann, Atascocita Middle School, Humble, TX
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"Winters creates a rich, gothic backdrop (further brought to life through period photographs and illustrations) for a story that will open many readers’ eyes to historical injustices inflicted on women—injustices with plenty of present-day parallels."Publishers Weekly
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"Winters continues to be a refreshing, incisive talent with a unique perspective."Booklist, Daniel Kraus
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"Fluid boundaries between what’s tangible and what’s intuited, lucidity and unconsciousness, sanity and madness are particularly apt for this story about hypnotism and emotional manipulation."The Horn Book Magazine, Katie Bircher
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"...readers will cheer as Olivia strikes out on her own, finally free of her father’s control."The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
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