The Logs by David Brin

A heroic young girl named Sasha must negotiate old-school czarist animosity, alien overlords, harsh planetary conditions, and her own family obligations, all to endure bravely into a future more hopeful than certain. Thank goodness for the friendly, useful presence of the massive elepents!

The Paul Di Filippo Presents series showcases the best in modern speculative fiction, personally selected by one of the most acclaimed authors and critics in the science fiction and fantasy fields.