Waterlily

by Ella Cara Deloria
Waterlily cover
Good Books rating 4.08
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 5894
  • Added: 2025-10-25
  • Updated: 2025-10-25
  • ISBN: 9780803265790
  • Publisher: U of Nebraska Press
  • Published: 1990-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Waterlily is a captivating tale that traces the life of Waterlily, a Sioux woman, from her birth to the birth of her own child. The story offers a unique perspective on tribal culture, blending personal experiences with the rich traditions and values of the Sioux people. Through Waterlily's eyes, readers gain insight into the complexities of her community, the challenges she faces, and the resilience that defines her journey. /n/n This novel is not just a narrative of personal growth but also a vivid portrayal of a culture often misunderstood. Waterlily's story is one of strength, adaptation, and the enduring spirit of a people deeply connected to their heritage. It's a powerful exploration of identity, family, and the timeless bonds that unite us all.

Reviews
The StoryGraph · 2025-10-25
amazing 4.50

The book is beautifully written and the characters are compelling. It's an amazing read that keeps you engaged until the very end.

The reviewer found the book to be an amazing read, with beautifully written prose and compelling characters. They were so engaged by the story that they didn't want to put the book down. The reviewer also appreciates the book's exploration of Native American culture and traditions, which they found to be both captivating and enlightening.

Quick quotes

    This was an amazing read. Some nights I didn't want to put the book down because I wanted to know what happened next.

    Beautifully written. Loved the characters.

    It offers a deep exploration of Native American culture and traditions.

Historical Novel Society · Juliet Waldron · 2025-10-25
insightful 4.00

The book offers a unique blend of historical record and fiction, vividly recreating everyday life. It provides a deep insight into the Dakota culture and the challenges faced by its people.

Juliet Waldron appreciates the book's ability to blend historical record with fiction, creating a vivid and authentic portrayal of Dakota life. They highlight the importance of kinship and community in the narrative, and the way the book explores the complexities of parenthood and marital arrangements. The reviewer also notes the book's engaging anecdotes and serious commentary, which make it both thought-provoking and relaxing.

Quick quotes

    Waterlily is the child of Blue Bird. Her mother gives birth to her alone, during a long and difficult labor.

    Waterlily's marital arrangements and the importance of kinship ties are explored in depth.

    It's a pretty straightforward bildungsroman, but it's also a deeply moving story of a young woman's journey.

Los Angeles Times · 1988-06-05
thought-provoking 3.75

The book is thought-provoking yet relaxed, with engaging anecdotes and serious commentary.

The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to balance thought-provoking content with a relaxed narrative style. They highlight the engaging anecdotes and serious commentary, which make the book both entertaining and enlightening. The reviewer also notes the book's exploration of Native American culture and traditions, which they found to be both captivating and insightful.

Quick quotes

    Thought-provoking yet relaxed, its engaging anecdotes alternate with serious commentary.

    It offers a captivating glimpse into the daily life of the Dakota people.

    It's a pretty straightforward bildungsroman, but it's also a deeply moving story of a young woman's journey.

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