My Favourite Published Works by First
Nations Authors (So Far)
byRichard Van Camp
- Winter in the Blood by James Welch.
Welch's nameless narrator
explores the theme of distance in this novel as he spirit-walks through
life and women as he mourns the loss of his father, brother and soul.
- Not Vanishing by Chrystos.
This collection of poetry explores themes
of violence and sexual passion while impacting the reader with
devastating beauty.
- Winterkill
and River Song by Craig Lesley.
This two-part novel series
is one I would have followed forever. Make sure to read Winterkill
first.
- The Grass Dancer by Susan Power.
This novel follows her characters
through their matrilineal lineage from a time almost forgotten to the
present.
- Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko.
A damn good novel with a haunting ending.
- Little Voice by Ruby Slipperjack.
A coming of age story set in the
bush of northern Ontario with characters so sweet they'll break your
heart. I promise… See Richard's review of this book.
- Skins by Adrian C. Louis.
This novel is a confession told from the
inside out. It's honest and brutal- -a tough read but worth it.
- The Toughest Indian in the World by Sherman Alexie.
This collection
of short stories is Sherman Alexie at his finest. I felt weightless as
I read this and, really, anything can happen at anytime to any of his
characters anywhere. Themes of loss and survival are braided together
with Sherman's special blend of humour and tragedy.
- Where the Rivers Join by Beckylane. A haunting story told through
many voices of incest, ritual abuse and the perseverance of the human
spirit.
- Thunder Through My Veins by Gregory Scofield.
This painfully honest
memoir shares the triumphs and challenges of Metis poet and playwright,
Gregory Scofield, as he comes to know his voice as a writer and his
sexuality.
- Porcupines and China Dolls" by Robert Arthur Alexie.
See Richard's review of this book.
© 2002 Richard Van Camp
Back to the Richard Van Camp Website