Not an easy read but important historical reality.

Inspired by the life of her grandfather. Good, but not her best.

Touching and compassionate. Characters you value and care about. It feel like you are really there.

I fell in love with the writing of Louise Erdrich 36 years ago when I read "Love Medicine" which still makes my list of 25 top novels ever. She writes about Native Americans with a voice that can probably be found only among Native peoples. I was unaware, but not surprised by the "emancipation" bill of 1953 which would have basically abolished tribal identities and entities. What they were being emancipated from in the minds of the legislators is clear - valuable property. Today the fight still goes on with the pipeline and other issues. Since Minnesota was the site of the largest mass execution by hanging in the history of the United States and is now the place where a black man is murdered by a policeman in front of our eyes, we need to remember that the lives of indigenous people also matter.. Following what is called the Dakota War of 1862, 302 Indians were sentenced to be executed. Through the intervention of President Lincoln the death sentences of of 264 prisoners were commuted, but he allowed the execution of 39 men. This book speaks with an indigenous voice about the continuing failures of whites to value the lives of others. I highly recommend reading the books of Louise Erdrich!!! Kristi &

A beautifully told story of the Turtle Mountain reservation and their fight against an "emancipation bill" (ie: termination of Indigenous rights) in the 50s, in North Dakota. A timely story as another federal emancipation bill reared its head just a month or two ago; this is not a past issue.

Erdrich tells this story quietly, with a measured pace, with moments of dreaming and imagery and moments that are more active -- the characters draw you in with their vivid individuality, and the writing is as fluid as usual with Erdrich. If you're looking for a complex, thoughtful story with interlocking relationships, and a sense of place, along with a compelling storyline, give this one a try. Recommended!

Enjoyed the coming of age of Scout

A little difficult to get into as it's a deep dive into another culture, poverty and exploitation. But beautiful language, imagery connections to the natural and spirit worlds. An important read!

The best book I’ve read so far in in 2020. So good. Fiction based on a true story. Tough, gritty, tender, loving. It’s so good.

I definitely didn't want this story of Patrice, her Mom, Thomas, Vera, Wood Mountain, Millie to end. Based on family history Of Erdrich, she details Native Am life at the Turtle Mtn Reservation which the Government is considering terminating. Thomas researches the Gov plan and goes to Washington to prevent the destruction of their reservation. Patrice and Thomas work at the new Jewel processing plant which brings a needed source of income to the reservation. Patrice, family and friends try to overcome poverty, alcoholism, abuse and lack of opportunities. Bit by bit through spirit, effort, determination..., pieces of their individual and community puzzle fall into place and grow.

I fell in love with the writing of Louise Erdrich 36 years ago when I read "Love Medicine" which still makes my list of 25 top novels ever. She writes about Native Americans with a voice that can probably be found only among Native peoples. I was unaware, but not surprised by the "emancipation" bill of 1953 which would have basically abolished tribal identities and entities. What they were being emancipated from in the minds of the legislators is clear - valuable property. Today the fight still goes on with the pipeline and other issues. Since Minnesota was the site of the largest mass execution by hanging in the history of the United States and is now the place where a black man is murdered by a policeman in front of our eyes, we need to remember that the lives of indigenous people also matter.. Following what is called the Dakota War of 1862, 302 Indians were sentenced to be executed. Through the intervention of President Lincoln the death sentences of of 264 prisoners were commuted, but he allowed the execution of 39 men. This book speaks with an indigenous voice about the continuing failures of whites to value the lives of others. I highly recommend reading the books of Louise Erdrich!!! Kristi &