Play Book Tag discussion

There There – Tommy Orange
4****

In his debut novel, Orange explores the world of today’s Urban Indian; people who may be registered with a tribe in Oklahoma or New Mexico, while living in Oakland California. These are people who struggle with the issues of the urban poor, while also trying to work against stereotype, and still connect with and celebrate their native culture.

Orange tells the story through the lives of a dozen different characters, all of whom are going to attend the Big Oakland Powwow. Some struggle with substance abuse and/or alcoholism. Others have issues of abandonment. Some have embraced their heritage despite little or no support from family. Others have turned from a culture they feel has failed them. Their lives are interwoven by coincidence, thin threads of DNA, circumstance, proximity and/or their shared desire to attend the powwow. They are in turn angry, desolate, hopeful, joyous, loving, confused, determined, generous or mean.

I did feel somewhat confused by the work, mostly due to the many characters and the constantly shifting point of view. Still, Orange’s voice is unique and powerful. And I look forward to reading more from him in the future.

Update on second reading: Nov 2019
I listened to the audio the first time, but chose to read the text for my second reading. If anything, the impact of Orange's writing is greater when reading on the page. Made for a stimulating book club discussion, though the majority of our members did not like the book.

My full review HERE


(NOTE: this has been tagged "American History" by 9 people. I assume because of the occupation of Alcatraz, which is only one chapter in the book.)