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Before internationally acclaimed author Joseph Boyden penned his bestselling novel Three Day Road and his Scotiabank Giller Prize-winning novel, Through Black Spruce, he published a powerful collection of thirteen stories about modern Aboriginal life that made readers and reviewers take notice. These stories of love, loss, rage and resilience match virtuosic style with clever wit to turn stereotypes on their head and reveal the traditions and grace of our First Peoples. Readers come to know a butterfly-costumed boy fascinated by the world of professional wrestling, a young woman who falls in love with a wolf, to the leader of an all-girl Native punk band and Painted Tongue, the unforgettable character from Through Black Spruce. Though each story is told in a different and distinct voice, they are all united by their captivating vitality, nuanced perceptions and vigorous prose.… (more)
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I fell in love with Boyden's style from the first few pages! After finishing the first story, too, I realized that I was in for an emotional journey. Only one short story in and Boyden had earned a new fan.
I really do not want to provide any spoilers here, so I will be careful with what I say. Here are the basics: the book has thirteen stories which are divided thematically into four directions of the compass. The stories are all about small First Nations communities in Ontario. Although they seem to be separate stories, by the end of the book, you will realize that the stories do exist in the same "universe". The last couple stories in particular really hit home this idea of a short story tapestry, where characters and ideas are woven together.
I suddenly feel that Half-Blood Blues, Year of the Flood and Annabel have some really strong competition (I disliked the final Canada Reads finalist, Cockroach)! Luckily, my hardcover copy of The Orenda arrived at the bookstore (and I only had to pay half price because I ordered it online). I really can't wait to read The Orenda and all of Boyden's other works.
Each of these stories (with one exception) is told from the perspective of a modern day First Nations person—man,
Of course, many of the themes are difficult. Land appropriation, residential schools, alcoholism, suicide, homelessness, and casinos are all part of Born with a Tooth. Boyden’s storytelling, even while relating a tragic story, uncovers unexpected glimpses of nobility and beauty, grace and life.
If you’ve read The Orenda, the last four stories in this collection will be especially interesting. In them, Boyden tells the same story through the eyes of four different participants. As in The Orenda, cultural misunderstanding is vividly illustrated. Each story will elicit empathy for its respective lead character.
Thanks to Brian Lachine for this great gift!
He is now teaching in New Orleans and I so impatient for a new book!