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martereadsalot 's review for:
Elatsoe
by Darcie Little Badger
This was a very refreshing addition to the ever-expanding selection of YA fantasy!
“Maybe, sometimes, wants felt like needs. Because the alternative hurt too bad.” blockquote>Where other books would’ve created any entirely different world, Elatsoe only makes slight alterations to the one we already know. Most notable having the paranormal be a part of everyday life.
Following a Lipan-Apache girl, it also pulls from the traditions and worldviews of Native Americans; softening the lines between the spiritual and corporeal.
And in creating this alternate world, Elatsoe gets a very distinctive voice. A voice which has a lot to say.
Like other great books, there’s more beneath the surface of Elatsoe exciting adventure. Subtle, yet clear, it delivers messages about the Native American-experience, ethnicity, race and the power of stories.
My favourite parts were actually never really about the main plot. There were just too many conveniences and too little build-up for me to engage fully with it.
Instead, I was much more captivated by character moments and learning about the history of Ellie’s family.
Because of the plot and pacing, it honestly reads younger than marketed.
That’s not really a critique though! As someone who loves middle-grade, I just think this could’ve easily found its’ home there – if certain, bloody, elements were toned down.
Elatsoe is much-needed a breath of fresh air, and anyone who wants less white, heterosexual fantasy should give it a go!
And if might, I’ll suggest a physical or digital edition because the illustrations by Rovina Cai are gorgeous!