The Death of Bernadette Lefthand

First and foremost, this is a story which is not filled with stereotypes. The cultures of the Navajo, Hopi, and the Apache are well portrayed. I was most surprised at the topic of the book in light of the fact that it is considered taboo to the Navajo. I supposed that's why the author is not of that tribe. Nevertheless, it was thoroughly entertaining, educational, and just plain well written. It deserves all the awards and accolades it has received.

Wonderful book, if you like Hillerman, you will really enjoy this book. Anyone I recommended this book to loved it, and looked for more by this author.

With "The Death of Bernadette Lefthand," Ron Querry demonstrates an amazing accuracy for detail. His understanding of subtle differences between two Nations - the Apache and the Navajo - bring his characters to life. The juxtaposition of these modern indigenous sub-cultures takes place within the confines of an equally contradictory landscape - the brutally beautiful American Southwest. If you are interested in the people, cultures, and landscape of the Southwest, you shouldn't miss this novel.

I cannot fully express how much I enjoyed this book. Beautifully written, with a story that pulls you in and holds you to the very last page. I've read lots of "Indian" books, but this is the true deal. It's the heartbreaking story of a young Apache girl and her senseless death. It is at times dark, mystical, and even humorous. I've recommended it to all my friends and they have LOVED it. Please give it a read. You won't be disappointed.

Touching without being sentimental. Eery ghosts haunt the souls on the reservation. Wonderful feeling of something ominous lurking throughout. Great storytelling. Navajo people are portrayed as real, without stereotype. The pacing was effortless, the characters multi-faceted and believable. Loved this book.