by Darcie Little Badger
Flap Copy Description:
Imagine an America very similar to our own. It's got homework, best friends, and pistachio ice cream.
There are some differences. This America been shaped dramatically by the magic, monsters, knowledge, and legends of its peoples, those Indigenous and those not. Some of these forces are charmingly everyday, like the ability to make an orb of light appear or travel across the world through rings of fungi. But other forces are less charming and should never see the light of day.
Elatsoe lives in this slightly stranger America. She can raise the ghosts of dead animals, a skill passed down through generations of her Lipan Apache family. Her beloved cousin has just been murdered, in a town that wants no prying eyes. But she is going to do more than pry. The picture-perfect facade of Willowbee masks gruesome secrets, and she will rely on her wits, skills, and friends to tear off the mask and protect her family.
My Thoughts:
Since I'm a fan of middle grade and young adult fantasy novels, I was excited to crack the spine of Elatsoe; I wasn't disappointed! Darcie Little Badger's debut book is full of unique characters, Lipan Apache folklore, and a plot with unexpected twists and turns. I especially enjoyed the strength and courage of Ellie (Elatsoe), the protagonist. In general, it's a well-written, imaginative fantasy story that is well worth the read. I highly recommend Elatsoe to readers aged ten to eighteen!
Click here to learn about the author, Darcie Little Badger.
