This is a really good first novel. And a great "own voices" book for young people (but all calling something "own voices" tells you is the professed ethnic and cultural background of the author, it's not an endorsement of quality. People of Asian descent can write crappy books about Asian people in the same way Caucasian people can write crappy books about Caucasian people).

It's a nice bit of world building, but as other reviewers have said, there is a bit in there that didn't need to be there. Ellie often played younger than her years and her cavalier attitude to some weighty issues and events got a bit off-putting at times. Having someone in your novel tell a tale about someone who then tells a tale--that's just annoying and sends the reader right out of the dream you are trying to create with your words.

I was on Newbery the year this came out and was excited to get it, but after two attempts to get through it, I set it aside. {The supposed age of the main character nudges it into Prince territory anyhoo}. I tried twice more after Newbery year was up...and finally made it through by listening. So, yes, an enjoyable read. One of the 100 best fantasy novels? No, Time Magazine, it's not. but it is worth your time.

2 1/2 stars
This book was so hard for me to follow. I like the indigenous aspect and the mystery but the story was not for me I guess.

I fell in love with this book; I love the world created by Darcie Little Badger, the inclusion of Indigenous culture, the “paranormal”/“magic” with the “real.” I thought the world building was really incredible. Elatsoe is a little Mary Sue, but I still enjoyed the character, and I love the fact that she is asexual! This book really was beautiful; from the world created to the illustrations. Just lovely.

A beautiful and unique story.

A totally delightful book with charming characters and an especially fascinating fantasy world. Highly recommended.

Wow wow wow. Fabulous storytelling here - I could see every scene play out in my mind (TV show writers take note!). The MC, her family, ghost pets, and bff felt fresh and authentic in ways that every fan of YA adventure/realistic fantasy/mysteries can get behind. It was fast-paced with thrills and deep emotion in every chapter. Not a big fan of the narrator, who lacked the necessary life inherent within the MC. Fav part was settler vampire getting his comeuppance (BRILLIANT writing here)!!!