Sundown

by John Joseph Mathews
Sundown cover
Good Books rating 3.92
Historical Fiction
Technical
  • ID: 5793
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9780806121604
  • Publisher: University of Oklahoma Press
  • Published: 1988-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Born at the dawn of the twentieth century, Windzer, a mixed-blood Osage, is named by his father to be 'a challenge to the disinheritors of his people.' Growing up in the untamed prairie and blackjack hills of northeast Oklahoma Territory, Windzer faces the complexities of his heritage and the opportunities—and hardships—brought by oil money, higher education, and the tumultuous eras of the Great War and the Roaring Twenties. His journey is one of self-discovery and resilience, set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world. /n/nCritics have lauded Sundown not only for its literary merit but also for its poignant portrayal of Native American history and culture. The novel offers a unique perspective on the struggles and triumphs of a man caught between two worlds, making it a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction and the Native American experience.

Reviews
ByArcadia · 2025-10-24
fascinating 4.25

The book is described as a fascinating work that intertwines personal and historical narratives. It is praised for its exploration of identity and mixed-blood struggles.

The reviewer finds the book to be a fascinating work that effectively intertwines personal and historical narratives. They appreciate the exploration of identity and the struggles faced by mixed-blood individuals, which adds depth and complexity to the story. The reviewer also notes the book's significance in challenging colonial narratives and providing a nuanced understanding of Native American experiences. Overall, the book is seen as a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    Sundown (1934) by John Joseph Mathews is a fascinating work belonging to the Native American Literature which manages to intertwine personal and historical ...

    It is praised for its exploration of identity and mixed-blood struggles.

    The book is seen as a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Goodreads · 2025-10-24
celebrated 3.50

Critics have praised the book both as a literary work and a vignette into the Native American past. It is celebrated for its rich storytelling and cultural insights.

The reviewer notes that the book has received generous praise from critics, who appreciate it as both a literary work and a window into the Native American past. They highlight the rich storytelling and the cultural insights that the book provides. The reviewer suggests that the book offers a unique perspective on Native American history and culture, making it a valuable and engaging read. The overall sentiment is one of high regard for the book's literary and cultural contributions.

Quick quotes

    Critics have praised Sundown generously, both as a literary work and a vignette into the Native American past.

    It is celebrated for its rich storytelling and cultural insights.

    The book offers a unique perspective on Native American history and culture.

The New York Times · 1934-11-25
moving 4.00

The book presents a moving picture of the protagonist's early life and his connection to Native American legends. It is praised for its vivid portrayal of cultural and personal struggles.

The reviewer highlights the emotional depth of the novel, particularly in its depiction of the protagonist's early years and his relationship with Native American legends. They appreciate how the book intertwines personal and historical narratives, offering a rich and moving experience. The reviewer also notes the cultural significance of the story, which provides a unique lens into the Native American past. Overall, the book is seen as a powerful and evocative work that resonates with readers.

Quick quotes

    "Sundown" presents a very moving picture of the first years of Chal's life, his response to the legends of his race, his education as a day student at the ...

    It is a vivid portrayal of cultural and personal struggles.

    The book offers a rich and moving experience.

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