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64 pages 2 hours read

Hunting by Stars

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2021

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Book Brief

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Cherie Dimaline

Hunting by Stars

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

408

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North America • Dystopian Future

Topic
Publication Year

2021

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

In Cherie Dimaline's 2021 novel Hunting by Stars, the second installment of the Marrow Thieves series, 17-year-old French is kidnapped by government agents in a post-apocalyptic world where Indigenous people are hunted for their dream-enabling bone marrow. As French's family, including his girlfriend Rose, fights to reunite and survive, they confront systemic oppression and perilous journeys, highlighting a dystopian critique of colonial violence against Indigenous communities. This book includes depictions of imprisonment, physical abuse, sexual abuse, violence, torture, racism, murder, and attempted infanticide.

Mysterious

Dark

Emotional

Contemplative

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.4

4,803 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Cherie Dimaline's Hunting by Stars weaves another compelling narrative with well-developed characters and a strong emotional core. Reviewers praise its blend of dystopian elements with indigenous storytelling, yet note occasional pacing issues. Overall, it's lauded for its evocative writing and thought-provoking themes.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Hunting by Stars?

Readers who enjoyed The Hunger Games or The Road will be captivated by Cherie Dimaline's Hunting by Stars. This book is ideal for those who appreciate dystopian narratives, Indigenous storytelling, and themes of survival, resistance, and identity. Perfect for fans of speculative fiction with rich cultural layers.

4.4

4,803 ratings

86%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

FRANCIS “FRENCH” DUSOME

A 17-year-old Métis boy and the protagonist who navigates difficult and morally ambiguous choices. He is resourceful and determined, using his quick decision-making skills to survive challenging situations.

A 16-year-old girl known for her beauty, curly hair, and fighting skills. She is driven by her instincts to search for loved ones, connecting deeply with cultural traditions and her Indigenous heritage.

French’s older brother who symbolizes the effects of alienation and colonization. He joins the government bureaucracy and has a steadfast belief in a colonialist perspective.

An elder and parent-figure who provides wisdom and guidance to French and Rose’s found family. He is committed to preserving traditions and demonstrates great patience and sacrifice.

A couple in their late teens dealing with past trauma while facing new challenges. Wab is pregnant, and both she and Chi Boy demonstrate resilience.

Identical 13-year-old twins who have endured physical trauma but remain playful and optimistic. They are seen as younger siblings within their group.

An antagonist who is an Indigenous man exploiting his heritage for personal gain and power, using others’ dreams and stories for sinister purposes.

A strict senior agent at the residential school where French is held, known for her business-like yet cruel demeanor. She oversees the painful and deadly process of marrow extraction.

A group of US-based vigilante women who embody the harmful complicity of cultural narratives and act against Indigenous communities. They are known for their cruel actions despite a façade of honorability.

Book Details
Pages

408

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North America • Dystopian Future

Topic
Publication Year

2021

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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