People of the Canyons--A Novel of North America's Forgotten Past

June 1, 2020
Thousands of years ago, in what is now the American Southwest, life after death was very real to the people of the canyons. Both life and death were seen as frightening and demanding, commanded by powerful forces that had to be assuaged. Thirteen-year-old Tsilu knows how to treat the dead, but knows nothing about her family. Her adoptive grandfather, Tocho, is a healer and a miracle worker, but, as an old man, he needs help looking after the girl. When a powerful ruler's fear of one more powerful than himself?the soul of a witch imprisoned in her own pot?stirs those who remember a better time, people of many nations begin a fateful quest. Shaken by the changes that follow, Tsilu is forced to make a decision that will not only determine her future, but that of everyone in the canyon. The Gears (Star Path, 2019) surround their characters with magnificent vistas and dress them in fantastic costumes that reveal their natures, creating a setting that is wild, beautiful, and ever-changing. This will be a treat for fans of historical fiction and historical fantasy.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)