One of the ways I determine if a book is a real classic for me is whether I think about the characters after I have finished the book. I read so many books that I usually can't remember a character or plot line a few weeks after I read it. The Healing passes my personal test with flying colors. I have continued to think about the characters and the plot in this book. I have described it and recommended it to any and all who will listen. I have read over 100 books this year and The Healing is in my Top 3.