A review by sashahc
Elatsoe by Darcie Little Badger

adventurous lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I really adore "Elatsoe" by Darcie Little Badger.  Elatsoe is a cheerful and feisty asexual Lipan Apache teenager living in an alternate Texas who can raise the spirits of the dead, a skill passed down from her grandmother.  Her best friend is a ghost dog and together with friends and family, they have to solve the murder of her cousin (and save the town).  One of the things I really appreciate about Elatsoe is that the MC has the full support and involvement of family and friends.  So many MG and YA fantasy books have loner chosen ones striking off alone.  This book works for older MG and YA.  There are a couple gross bits, but nothing too heavy.