Pushing the Bear

Pushing the Bear offers a poignant and powerful retelling of the Cherokee removal from their ancestral lands in 1838. Through the voices of various individuals, the book brings to life the personal stories of struggle, resilience, and loss endured during the Trail of Tears. Each narrative provides a unique perspective, weaving together a tapestry of emotions and historical significance that resonates deeply with readers. This collection of stories is not just a historical account but a testament to the human spirit. It delves into the cultural and emotional impact of the forced relocation, offering a profound look at the Cherokee people's fight for survival and identity. The book is a must-read for those interested in understanding this pivotal moment in American history through the eyes of those who experienced it firsthand.

Reviews

Goodreads · 2025-10-24

good 3.60

The book is a good account of the hardships endured by the Cherokee people during the Trail of Tears. It is a lyrical and historical novel that captures the devastating impact of the event.

This novel is a poignant and lyrical exploration of the Trail of Tears, told through the diverse voices of the Cherokee people. The reviewer found the book to be a good account of the hardships endured by the Cherokee, including disease, death, spiritual despair, and cruelty. The reviewer appreciated the way Glancy captures the emotional and physical toll of the event, as well as the resilience and strength of the Cherokee people. The reviewer also found the novel to be a powerful and moving account of a tragic period in history, highlighting the devastating impact of the Trail of Tears on the Cherokee people.

Quick quotes

It is a good book that explained all the hardship (disease, death, spiritual despite, cruelty) Cherokees had endured during the trail with multiple voices from ...

A lyrical historical novel captures the devastating impact of the Trail of Tears on the Cherokee people.

The novel is a poignant and lyrical exploration of the Trail of Tears, told through the diverse voices of the Cherokee people.

Kirkus Reviews · 2025-10-24

harrowing 4.00

Glancy captures the horror of the forced march through the Trail of Tears with multiple first-person narratives. The novel is a bone-true tale of sorrow, struggle, and betrayal.

This novel is a deeply moving and harrowing account of the Trail of Tears, told through the voices of those who experienced it. The reviewer was struck by the raw emotion and vivid storytelling that brings the characters' struggles to life. Glancy's use of multiple first-person narratives gives a comprehensive and unforgettable perspective on the event. The reviewer found the novel to be a powerful and poignant exploration of a dark chapter in American history, highlighting the resilience and strength of the Cherokee people in the face of immense adversity. The reviewer also appreciated the way Glancy interweaves the perspectives of various characters, giving a well-rounded view of the event.

Quick quotes

Glancy, interweaving first-person narratives by a number of figures, most of them Cherokees, captures the horror of the forced march.

A bone-true tale of sorrow, struggle, and betrayal suffered by the Cherokee along the Trail of Tears.

The novel is a deeply moving and harrowing account of the Trail of Tears, told through the voices of those who experienced it.

The Storygraph · melissawalcott · 2025-10-24

harrowing 4.50

The book opens eyes to the monstrous acts committed by the U.S. government and the personal struggles of the Cherokee people. It is a powerful and moving account of the Trail of Tears.

This novel is a stark and unflinching look at the Trail of Tears, told through the eyes of those who suffered through it. The reviewer was already appalled by the historical event, but Diane Glancy's writing deepened their understanding and empathy. The personal struggles of the Cherokee people are brought to life in a way that is both heartbreaking and enlightening. The reviewer found the book to be a powerful and moving account of a tragic period in history, highlighting the resilience and strength of the Cherokee people in the face of immense adversity. The reviewer also appreciated the way Glancy interweaves multiple perspectives, giving a comprehensive view of the event.

Quick quotes

I was already appalled, but Diane Glancy opened my eyes wider.

The monstrous acts committed by the U.S. government and the personal struggles, as well as the resilience of the Cherokee people, are vividly portrayed.

This is a powerful and moving account of the Trail of Tears that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

Appears in Lists

10 Essential Native American Novels