Gail Anderson-Dargatz's evocative first novel -- a richly atmospheric coming-of-age tale set on a remote Canadian farm in the midst of World War II -- reveals an assured and original voice.The Cure for Death by Lightning is the story of Beth Weeks, a young girl whose life is thrown into turmoil by her abusive father, a mysterious stalker, and her own awakening sexuality. But friendship with a girl from the nearby Indian reservation connects her to an enriching mythology, and an unexpected protector ultimately shores up her world. The novel is sprinkled throughout with recipes and remedies from the scrapbook Beth's mother keeps, a boon to Beth as she faces down her demons and discovers what she is made of -- and one of many elements that gives The Cure for Death by Lightning its enchanting vitality.