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House Made of Dawn

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1968

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Book Brief

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N. Scott Momaday

House Made of Dawn

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1968
Book Details
Pages

212

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Mexico • 1940s

Publication Year

1968

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

970L

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Super Short Summary

House Made of Dawn by N. Scott Momaday follows Abel, a young Indigenous American war veteran who, traumatized by his experiences in World War II, returns to his hometown in New Mexico. Struggling with alcohol addiction and his disconnection from his cultural roots, Abel's journey of self-discovery involves relationships, violent encounters, and eventual participation in a traditional ceremonial race that helps him reconnect with his heritage and find a sense of belonging. The novel contains sensitive topics including alcohol addiction and physical violence.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Mysterious

Nostalgic

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

3.9

11,252 ratings

60%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews for N. Scott Momaday's House Made of Dawn often praise its rich prose and deep exploration of Native American culture and identity. Readers appreciate its poetic style and vivid descriptions. However, some find its nonlinear narrative and complex symbolism challenging. Despite this, many regard it as a powerful and evocative literary achievement.

Who should read this

Who Should Read House Made of Dawn?

A reader who would enjoy House Made of Dawn by N. Scott Momaday is likely interested in Native American culture, identity, and post-war struggles. Fans of Louise Erdrich's Love Medicine or Leslie Marmon Silko's Ceremony would find this novel compelling for its lyrical prose and deep exploration of indigenous themes.

3.9

11,252 ratings

60%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Character List

Abel

Abel is a young Indigenous man and World War II veteran struggling with alienation as he returns to his reservation and navigates life after the war. His personal journey reflects broader themes of marginalization and cultural disconnection.

Francisco is Abel's grandfather, who represents a connection to traditional cultural heritage and spirituality. As a devout Christian and keeper of ancestral stories, he attempts to pass on his knowledge to Abel.

Angela is a visitor to Jemez who becomes briefly involved with Abel, using their relationship to address her own feelings of being an outsider. Her actions reflect her internal struggle with societal beliefs and personal identity.

Ben Benally is Abel's roommate and friend in Los Angeles, who empathizes with Abel’s struggles and attempts to offer support. His character highlights the challenges faced by Indigenous people trying to navigate modern society.

Book Details
Pages

212

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Mexico • 1940s

Publication Year

1968

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

970L

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