The Haunted Hogan

Rating:
Summary: Slice of Life Among the Navajo
Review: I actually have studied the Navajo culture and have a story with a Navajo protagonist in the anthology, Unholy Orders. But what Leo Du Lac offers here are really incredible insights into contemporary Navajo society. He has a terrific set of characters. The protagonist, Wassaja (an Osage Indian who lives among the Navajo), is unique. He knows who he is and who he is not. He knows his frailties and his failings--as well as his aims. The reader can only empathize with him--he's so well drawn, and such an innocent for all his life's experiences.

This is a very charming story. The relationships are very well drawn and realistic. The turning point--Wassaja inheriting a whole lot of money--serves as a catalyst for many unusual juxtapositions that we wouldn't be able to otherwise witness. The depictions here are a lot of fun and very wise. Du Lac examines everything in this rather interesting mix of people and motivations in a totally honestly, in-depth, unshrinking, but entertaining way. Good dialogue, good background, good characters, nice insights, and good writing. G. Miki Hayden, author of Writing the Mystery--a Macavity winner and Agatha and Anthony nomination