Lost Birds, the newest mystery by Anne Hillerman, has a lot going on.

Joe Leaphorn, working as a private detective, is searching for the history of a woman who was adopted by a white couple., before the law forbidding such adoptions was passed. Her only clue to her past is a photograph with a Navaho child’s blanket. The Lost Birds of the title refer to those children adopted out and who are now missing from their culture.

At the same time, Leaphorn receives a call from a man who met him as a child. Bowlegs’ wife is missing but before he can give too many details, the call is interrupted by an explosion. Leaphorn is not even sure if Bowlegs survived. Bernie Manuelito becomes involved in this case when she is called to the scene; a school with a newly built addition. A school, moreover, where Bowlegs’ wife worked.

Bernie is distracted by other cases and her mother’s increasing frailty. She cannot live on her own and Bernie’s sister is unable to fulfill that responsibility.

Complicated as the cases collide. The underlying theme is these missing children who lose their heritage. Hillerman continues her father’s legacy of showing this exotic and amazing culture. Captivating.