Books matching: indigenous culture
100 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
Save:A quietly haunting and original post-apocalyptic novel that shines a light on Indigenous resilience and community - but expect a slow burn with subtle thrills rather than blockbuster action.
"Moon of the Crusted Snow" by Waubgeshig Rice is a post-apocalyptic novel set in a remote Anishinaabe community in northern Ontario. The story follows Evan Whitesky and his family as they navigate the sudden loss of electricity, cell phone service, and contact with the outside world. As the community faces a harsh winter and the arrival of white strangers, tensions rise, survival becomes uncertain, and the characters must confront the challenges of the new world they find themselves in. The writing style is described as spare yet effective, with a focus on building tension and creating a sense of foreboding that keeps readers engaged.
A crack echoed through the boreal landscape, a momentary chaos in the still afternoon air. In the near distance, a large bull moose fell to its side. Evan Whitesky stood and looped his rifle around hi...October 2018•223 pages - #2
Save:A soul-nourishing blend of story, science, and wisdom - Braiding Sweetgrass invites us to see nature as a gift and challenges us to rebuild our connection with the earth. Read it for inspiration, perspective, and a gentler vision for our shared future.
'Braiding Sweetgrass' by Robin Wall Kimmerer is a blend of indigenous wisdom and scientific knowledge, focusing on the interconnectedness between nature, culture, and humanity. Through a series of essays or stories, Kimmerer shares her personal journey as a Potawatomi person and a biology professor, exploring themes of reciprocity, gratitude, and sustainability. Her writing style is described as poetic, reflective, and meditative, offering a unique perspective on environmentalism and indigenous philosophy.
Hurtling downward, she saw only dark water below. But in that emptiness there were many eyes gazing up at the sudden shaft of light. They saw there a small object, a mere dust mote in the beam. As it...September 2013•400 pages A witty, passionate, and eye-opening must-read that challenges the stories we've been told about Indigenous history - perfect for anyone ready to rethink the narrative and face some uncomfortable truths.
"The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America" by Thomas King is a history book that provides a unique perspective on the treatment of indigenous people in North America by European settlers. The author blends memoir and history, exploring the impact of colonization on native cultures and the ongoing struggles faced by Native Americans today. King's engaging and entertaining writing style, infused with humor, helps shed light on the often grim subject matter, challenging readers to rethink their perceptions of Native Americans and their history.
The book covers a wide range of topics, including the history of native involvement in Hollywood, the portrayal of natives in film, the challenges faced by North American tribes in determining identity, and the injustices perpetuated by various governments since the 1600s. Through a conversational and witty narrative, King skillfully presents the complexities of Native White relationships, historical misfortunes, and the ongoing political strategies that have perpetuated racial inequities. Overall, "The Inconvenient Indian" offers a thought-provoking and eye-opening account of the struggles and resilience of Native peoples in North America.
ABOUT FIFTEEN YEARS BACK, a bunch of us got together to form a drum group. John Samosi, one of our lead singers, suggested we call ourselves “The Pesky Redskins.” Since we couldn’t sing all that well,...November 2012•297 pagesGut-wrenching, necessary, and illuminating - this book is imperfect in style but absolutely vital in content. Every Canadian (and really, anyone interested in justice and equity) should read it.
'Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City' by Tanya Talaga delves into the tragic deaths of seven Indigenous youths in Thunder Bay, Ontario, between 2000 and 2011. These students faced challenges attending high school far from home, living with non-native families, and navigating a city hostile to Indigenous people. Talaga explores the historical trauma inflicted by residential schools and government neglect on Indigenous communities, emphasizing the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous youth in Canada. sheds light on systemic racism, government failures, and the quest for justice and equality for Indigenous groups.
The giant spent his days lumbering around Gichigami, the colossal body of water that looked like a sea. He stomped and he stomped and he stomped. His noisy footprints created massive valleys and rock...September 2017•376 pages- #5
Save:A powerful and evocative YA novel that stands out for its unique Indigenous perspective and timely themes. It might not thrill non-dystopian or action-focused readers, but it's a must-read if you want speculative fiction that makes you think - and feel.
The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline is a dystopian novel set in a future Canada where indigenous people are hunted for their bone marrow, the key to dreaming which the rest of the population has lost. The story follows Frenchie, a 16-year-old Metis boy who joins a group of indigenous people fleeing north to escape the recruiters. Through a nonlinear narrative, the book explores themes of survival, loss, family, and the exploitation of indigenous cultures in a post-apocalyptic world.
“Anishnaabe people, us, lived on these lands for a thousand years. Some of our brothers decided to walk as far east as they could go, and some walked west, and some crossed great stretches of narrow e...May 2017•245 pages Essential reading for anyone in Canada - concise, accessible, and a much-needed reality check on the impact of the Indian Act. It’s the perfect starting point for real understanding and action toward reconciliation.
'21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act' by Bob Joseph breaks down the Indian Act into easily digestible pieces, aiming to educate Canadians of all backgrounds on the historical and ongoing influence of the Act on the country. Through practical examples and historical insights, the book sheds light on the shameful treatment of Indigenous peoples, emphasizing the importance of understanding and reconciliation. Readers praise the book for providing a clear and concise overview of the Indian Act, offering valuable insights into the colonial relations between settlers and Indigenous peoples in Canada.
The Indian Act election system, in which the majority of our First Nation members still operate, has severely impacted the manner in which our societies traditionally governed themselves. It has displ...April 2018•160 pages- #7
Save:Artful, shocking, and dreamlike - "Split Tooth" is a gut-punch of a book you’ll either find life-changing or impossible to finish, but you’ll never forget it.
'Split Tooth' by Tanya Tagaq is a genre-defying book that delves into the raw and brutal experiences of a young Inuit girl growing up in the far north. The story is a blend of coming-of-age narrative, magical realism, and poetry, exploring themes of abuse, violence, and the harsh realities of life in the Arctic. The writing style is described as visceral, electric, and haunting, with scenes that seamlessly shift between the mundane and the mythical, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.
We are picking up stale old cigarette butts and smoking the last puffs off them, burning our lips and fingers on the indignity of it all. There are always plenty of butts around the Bay or the Co-op,...September 2018•220 pages - #8
Save:A raw, inventive, and gut-punching journey through teen turmoil and myth, best for adults and mature readers who appreciate dark yet empathetic storytelling. Not your typical YA – approach with care.
'Son of a Trickster' by Eden Robinson follows the story of Jared, a young smart-mouthed teenager living with his troubled mother. Despite facing unfortunate events and unreliable adults in his life, Jared's strong core of compassion and sense of duty shines through as he navigates through teenage struggles and family dysfunction. The narrative weaves together elements of magical realism with raw realism, portraying Jared's life with a mix of teenage drama, family dynamics, and the introduction of fantastical elements like talking animals and supernatural beings. The writing style is described as sparse yet engaging, with witty and gritty dialogues that bring the characters to life in a vivid and authentic manner.
His tiny, tightly permed maternal grandmother, Anita Moody, had never liked him. As far back as Jared could remember, she’d watched him suspiciously with her clear black eyes. She never let him come c...February 2017•336 pages - #9
Save:A lush, atmospheric read perfect for fans of art, nature, and trailblazing women - though its slow pace and broad brushstrokes may not appeal to everyone.
'The Forest Lover' by Susan Vreeland is a fictionalized biography of Canadian artist Emily Carr, focusing on her struggles and triumphs in capturing the Native American culture and landscapes of British Columbia. The book delves into Carr's fierce independence, her unconventional choices in art and life, and her unwavering dedication to preserving the disappearing indigenous culture through her paintings. Vreeland skillfully weaves a narrative that explores Carr's artistic inspirations, her relationships with the native people, and the societal challenges faced by a woman artist in the early 20th century.
Through vivid descriptions and rich storytelling, Vreeland brings to life the lush forests, vibrant indigenous people, and the artistic spirit of Emily Carr. The novel delves into Carr's philosophical musings on the role of art, the artist's relationship with nature, and the complexities of gender, culture, and spirituality. It portrays Carr as a rebellious and courageous figure who defied societal norms to pursue her artistic vision, leaving a legacy that goes beyond mere paintings to embody the essence of a disappearing culture and the artist's enduring spirit.
Letting her cape snap in the wind, Emily gripped her carpetbag and wicker food hamper, and hiked up the beach, feasting her eyes on Hitats’uu spread wide beneath fine-spun vapor. Cedars elbowing firs...January 2001•464 pages - #10
Save:A powerful, imaginative anthology bursting with heart and originality - a rewarding read for anyone curious about diverse futures and the intersections of Indigeneity and queerness.
The anthology 'Love After the End' curated by Joshua Whitehead features a collection of speculative fiction stories by queer Indigenous two-spirit authors. The stories explore a range of themes including alternative futures, Indigenous identities, love in various forms, and the intersection of queer and Indigenous identities. The writing style varies across the stories, with some set in distant futures and others in modified present times, offering a diverse and thought-provoking reading experience.
Designed. Crafted. Created. An engineered bio-computing AI. I grew up on the growth colonies off one of Jupiter’s moons, boonies for the twenty-fourth century. Io is a rat farm—basically the way they...October 2020•200 pages
