My Favourite Published Works by First Nations Authors (So Far)

Richard Van Camp

1. 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.


2. Not Vanishing by Chrystos. This collection of poetry explores themes of violence and sexual passion while impacting the reader with devastating beauty.


3. 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.


4. The Grass Dancer by Susan Power. This novel follows her characters through their matrilineal lineage from a time almost forgotten to the present.


5. Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko. A damn good novel with a haunting ending.


6. 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.


7. 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.


8. 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.


9. Where the Rivers Join by Beckylane. A haunting story told through many voices of incest, ritual abuse and the perseverance of the human spirit.


10. 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.


11. Porcupines and China Dolls" by Robert Arthur Alexie. See Richard's review of this book.