Picture a storyteller who weaves Choctaw culture into gripping mysteries that keep you up all night—meet Lu Clifton! Born in the heart of Oklahoma, this acclaimed American author has carved a unique niche with her Sam Chitto mystery series, blending suspense with rich Native American traditions. Her knack for authentic, immersive storytelling spans both adult mysteries and award-winning children’s literature, captivating readers worldwide.
The Making of Lu Clifton
Lutricia 'Lu' Clifton grew up in southeastern Oklahoma, a land steeped in Choctaw and Cherokee heritage that would later shape her writing. With Choctaw roots through her mother’s side, she developed a deep interest in Native American traditions, which she meticulously researched to bring authenticity to her work. After moving to the Texas Panhandle, Clifton earned an associate degree from Amarillo Junior College and a B.A. and M.A. in English from Colorado State University. Now residing in Illinois with her rescued gray tabby, Mary Jane, she balances her writing with her passion for cultural storytelling.
Lu Clifton’s Unforgettable Stories
Clifton’s Sam Chitto mystery series, launched with Scalp Dance in 2016, introduces Lieutenant Sam Chitto, a Choctaw Tribal Police officer and geologist navigating complex crimes in Oklahoma’s 'checkerboard' jurisdiction. The novel, a finalist for the 2017 Oklahoma Book Award, tackles ritualistic killings with a blend of science and Choctaw lore. Its sequel, The Bone Picker (2017), dives into a 35-year-old cold case, earning another Oklahoma Book Award nomination for its intricate plotting and cultural depth. The Horned Owl (2018) sees Chitto defending a teen accused of murder, weaving in the Choctaw deity Ishkitini, while Five-Dollar Indian (2020) exposes a fraudulent 'Native' promoter, tying back to Chitto’s personal tragedies. Beyond mysteries, Clifton’s children’s novels like Freaky Fast Frankie Joe (2012) and Seeking Cassandra (2016), which won the 2017 Oklahoma Book Award for Young Adult Fiction, showcase her versatile, heartfelt storytelling.
Clifton’s style is a masterclass in balance: her mysteries are gritty yet respectful, weaving Choctaw myths and history into tightly plotted narratives. Her characters, especially the multifaceted Sam Chitto, grapple with personal loss and cultural identity, resonating with readers who crave depth alongside suspense. Her vivid depictions of Oklahoma’s landscapes—from the Ouachita Wilderness to Spiro Mounds—ground her stories in a palpable sense of place.
Why Lu Clifton Matters
Lu Clifton’s work transcends the mystery genre, offering a window into Choctaw culture and the complexities of tribal law enforcement. Her authentic portrayal of Native American life, informed by her heritage and research, challenges stereotypes and amplifies underrepresented voices. Her children’s literature, equally celebrated, inspires young readers with stories of resilience and identity. With multiple award nominations and a growing fanbase, Clifton’s legacy lies in her ability to bridge cultures through storytelling, making her a vital voice in contemporary American literature.
- About Lu Clifton
- Born: Southeastern Oklahoma
- Key Works: Scalp Dance, The Bone Picker, Freaky Fast Frankie Joe, Seeking Cassandra
- Awards: 2012 Friends of American Writers Award, 2017 Oklahoma Book Award for Young Adult Fiction, multiple Oklahoma Book Award nominations
- Fun Fact: Lives with a gray tabby named Mary Jane
Ready for a thrilling dive into Choctaw culture and mystery? Grab Scalp Dance and lose yourself in Lu Clifton’s captivating world!