49 pages 1 hour read

Bad Cree

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2023

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Book Brief

Jessica Johns

Bad Cree

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2023
Book Details
Pages

259

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Vancouver, Canada • Contemporary

Publication Year

2023

Publisher

Doubleday

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Bad Cree by Jessica Johns follows a Cree protagonist who experiences intense dreams about their deceased sister. These dreams begin to manifest in reality, revealing connections to culture, family, and past trauma. The protagonist embarks on a journey of healing and understanding, exploring themes of grief, identity, and indigenous spirituality.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Emotional

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

4.1

14,636 ratings

71%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Bad Cree by Jessica Johns has been praised for its compelling blend of horror and Indigenous storytelling. Critics appreciate the novel's vivid prose and culturally rich narrative. However, some feel the pacing occasionally lags, impacting tension. Overall, it is lauded as a unique and resonant work, effectively exploring themes of grief and identity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Bad Cree?

A reader who enjoys suspenseful, culturally rich novels with supernatural elements would be captivated by Bad Cree by Jessica Johns. Fans of Tommy Orange’s There There or Eden Robinson’s Monkey Beach will appreciate the fusion of Indigenous storytelling and contemporary themes.

4.1

14,636 ratings

71%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Mackenzie

The novel's narrator and protagonist, Mackenzie is a member of the Cree First Nation who moves from High Prairie to Vancouver, dealing with dreams and contemporary challenges while finding her path towards reconnection.

A significant matriarch within her family and community, she navigates her relationships with warmth and determination, particularly influencing Mackenzie during her personal turmoil.

Mackenzie’s cousin, known for her resilience and empathy, Kassidy plays a supportive role in helping Mackenzie reconnect with her roots and family.

Mackenzie's deceased sister, who remains a powerful presence in Mackenzie's life, reflecting the importance of family bonds and the personal challenges Mackenzie faces.

Mackenzie’s sister and Sabrina’s twin, characterized by her strength and resourcefulness, sharing a deep bond with Mackenzie and contributing to her journey toward healing.

Close family friends of Mackenzie’s mother who live in Vancouver, providing Mackenzie with a sense of stability and support away from her immediate family.

Mackenzie’s aunts, who maintain close family ties and offer Mackenzie guidance, connecting her with cultural traditions and familial values.

Book Details
Pages

259

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Vancouver, Canada • Contemporary

Publication Year

2023

Publisher

Doubleday

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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