You can’t talk about Canadian literature without talking about indigenous Canadian literature. These books give us deep insights into the history, culture, and experiences of indigenous peoples. They also challenge readers to confront and reflect Canada’s history of colonialism.
In this blog post, I will share with you three indigenous Canadian books that I think you should check out. Follow my blog for more Canadian book recommendations.
The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King
Genre: Non-fiction, History, Cultural Studies
Themes: Indigenous history in North America, Colonialism, Identity, Activism
The Inconvenient Indian is an unapologetic account of the history and current realities of Indigenous peoples in North America. Thomas King uses his wit and critical lens to dissect the misconceptions about Indigenous peoples propagated through history and pop culture.
King’s narrative is deeply personal and insightful. It explores what it means to be “Indian” in North America. For anyone seeking to understand the complexity of indigenous identity, give this book a read.
Seven Fallen Feathers by Tanya Talaga
Genre: Non-fiction, Investigative Journalism
Themes: Racism, Education, Indigenous Rights, True Crime
Seven Fallen Feathers investigates the tragic deaths of seven indigenous high school students in Thunder Bay, Ontario between 2000 and 2011. This book dives into the systemic racism and failures of the Canadian education and justice systems.
Talaga sheds light on the broader context of indigenous struggles through painstaking research and interviews. This exploration of the impacts of colonialism is a poignant call for reconciliation and change.
The Orenda by Joseph Boyden
Genre: Historical Fiction
Themes: Culture, Conflict, Survival, Spirituality
The orenda is an Iroquoian term to describe the life force that connects all living things. Joseph Boyden’s novel “The Orenda” immerses readers in the early contact period between Indigenous peoples and European colonizers.
The lives of a Huron warrior, a young Iroquois girl, and a French Jesuit missionary intertwine in this complex narrative. Boyden’s novel is powerful, brutal, and beautifully written. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of Indigenous peoples in the face of devastating conflict and change.
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