Speculative fiction that blends traditional Lipan Apache storytelling with contemporary world-building has become a distinctive fixture of modern young adult literature. Author Darcie Little Badger (she/her) came to prominent attention with her award-winning debut fantasy novel, Elatsoe, drawing upon both her cultural heritage and scientific background to craft narratives centered on Indigenous characters, family bonds, and supernatural phenomena.
Career & Background
Born Darcie Erin Ryan, Little Badger received her surname following high school graduation in accordance with Lipan Apache tradition, referencing an important figure in the tribe's origin narrative. She earned her undergraduate degree at Princeton University in 2010 and later completed a PhD in oceanography, working as an Earth scientist alongside her creative career. Dr. Little Badger transitioned into writing speculative fiction, short stories, and comics, incorporating Lipan Apache folklore and environmental themes into her published work. She is married to Taran, a veterinarian.
Writing Style & Themes
Little Badger's work frequently falls within the Indigenous Futurisms movement, integrating science fiction, fantasy, and horror elements with Lipan Apache culture, ghosts, monsters, and deep connections to the Earth. Her narratives regularly feature Apache and LGBTQ characters, strong intergenerational family structures, and hopeful outcomes for young readers facing complex or dark realities. Her background as an oceanographer and Earth scientist informs the environmental and ecological perspectives present across her prose.
Major Works
- Elatsoe — Published as her debut young adult fantasy novel, Elatsoe was featured in Time Magazine as one of the 100 best fantasy books of all time. The novel won the Locus Award for Best First Novel and was named a finalist for the Nebula Award, Ignyte Award, and Lodestar Award.
- A Snake Falls to Earth — Her second fantasy novel, A Snake Falls to Earth, received a Nebula Award, an Ignyte Award, and a Newbery Honor, in addition to being longlisted for the National Book Award.
- Sheine Lende — Serving as a prequel novel to Elatsoe, Sheine Lende became a USA Today bestseller while expanding the supernatural world and family history introduced in her debut.
