An award-winning novel set in the post-apocalyptic future follows a young woman who travels the earth healing the sick with the help of her alien companion, the dreamsnake, pursued by two implacable followers. Nuclear war, biotechnology, alternate sex patterns, and other-worldly tribalism put in appearances. Won Nebula Award for Best Novel in 1978. Won Hugo Award for Best Novel in 1979. Won Locus Award for Best Novel in 1979