This collection, "Living Ghosts & Mischievous Monsters," delivers exactly what its title promises: a series of genuinely chilling American Indian stories. Author Dan SaSuWeh Jones, of the Ponca Nation, curates 32 short tales, some traditional folklore and others more contemporary accounts, all designed to evoke a sense of unease and fright. The book features a range of supernatural entities, from witches and walking dolls to La Llorona and Deer Woman, making it a rich tapestry of cultural horror. The book handles sensitive topics like fear and the supernatural directly but within the context of storytelling. It's not gratuitously violent, but the scares are psychological and atmospheric, relying on suspense and the unknown. The emotional arc is consistently eerie, maintaining a spooky tone throughout, with each story offering a self-contained thrill. This book is specifically for children who enjoy being scared in a controlled environment, particularly those who appreciate folklore and cultural stories. It's an excellent choice for a child interested in ghost stories beyond the typical Western canon, or for families looking to explore diverse cultural narratives. A parent might reach for this when their child has outgrown milder spooky tales and is ready for something with a bit more bite, or when seeking resources that provide authentic Indigenous perspectives. Parents should preview some stories, especially for younger or more sensitive readers within the 4-11 age range, as some tales could be quite frightening. The book's comparison to "Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark" is apt, indicating a similar level of intensity. Younger children (4-6) might be better suited to listening to selected stories with a parent, while older elementary children (7-11) can engage in independent reading. What makes this book different is its specific focus on American Indian traditions, offering a crucial window into Indigenous storytelling and cultural beliefs surrounding the supernatural, which is often underrepresented in children's literature. The haunting illustrations by Weshoyot Alvitre further enhance the atmospheric experience.
