10 Essential Native American Novels
A curated list of 10 essential Native American novels, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and diverse voices of Native American authors.
The Fast Red Road: A Plainsong
A half-blood protagonist embarks on a surreal journey through a myth-infused American West, blending pop culture, history, and personal rede…
Pushing the Bear
Experience the harrowing journey of over 10,000 Cherokee people on the Trail of Tears through the voices of those who lived it.
Shell Shaker
A haunting tale of Choctaw history and mystery, Shell Shaker weaves together the past and present as a woman seeks to solve a century-old mu…
Tracks
In the early 1900s, a North Dakota Indian tribe fights to preserve their land against the encroachment of white society, revealing a powerfu…
Sundown
Follow the journey of Windzer, a mixed-blood Osage man, as he navigates the challenges of identity, opportunity, and destiny in early 20th-c…
Ceremony
A haunting and powerful novel about a Native American veteran's journey to heal from the wounds of war and reclaim his cultural identity thr…
Power
A mythical tale of a young girl's journey to find her place in the world, blending Native American heritage with a far-reaching narrative.
Winter in the Blood
A haunting and lyrical novel that delves into the complexities of Native American identity and the harsh beauty of the Montana landscape.
The Sharpest Sight
A Vietnam veteran's final journey becomes a profound exploration of heritage and identity for his brother and friend.
This list, curated by Brandon Hobson, a member of the Cherokee Nation Tribe, showcases 10 essential Native American novels that are both culturally significant and artistically brilliant. The selection includes well-established authors like N. Scott Momaday and Louise Erdrich, as well as newer voices like Layli Long Soldier and Tommy Orange. These novels explore themes of identity, heritage, and the struggles faced by Native American communities, offering a profound and moving reading experience. From historical fiction to contemporary narratives, each book on this list provides a unique perspective on Native American life, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in diverse literature.