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160
Novel • Fiction
British Columbia • Mid-20th Century
1967
Adult
14+ years
I Heard The Owl Call My Name by Margaret Craven follows 27-year-old Anglican vicar Mark Brian, who has an unnamed terminal illness, as he is sent to live among the Kwakiutl Indians in the coastal village of Kingcome. With the guidance of local Jim Wallace, Mark learns about the indigenous culture, the struggles of the village, and the dignity in the cycle of life. Through his journey, Mark forms deep connections with the villagers and gains profound insights into life and death.
Contemplative
Melancholic
Inspirational
Serene
Hopeful
9,769 ratings
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Margaret Craven's I Heard the Owl Call My Name offers a poignant exploration of indigenous culture and the confrontation with mortality. The narrative is praised for its simplicity and emotional depth. Critics highlight the sensitive portrayal of the Kwakiutl tribe, though some feel the characterization could be more nuanced. Overall, it's a moving and thought-provoking read.
Readers who relish touching tales of cross-cultural encounters and personal growth will appreciate Margaret Craven's I Heard The Owl Call My Name. Fans of books like Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart and Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner will connect with its poignant exploration of life, death, and community amidst indigenous settings.
9,769 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Caleb
A retired canon who once held Mark's position. He provides practical advice to Mark and assists in finding host families for village boys traveling to Vancouver.
The Bishop
An overseeing figure in Mark’s life who knows of Mark's condition. He believes in the mutual benefit of Mark’s assignment in the Indian villages.
Mrs. Hudson
The village matriarch, known for organizing community feasts and serving turnips as a subtle act of defiance against white men.
Marta Stephens
The elderly "grandmother of the tribe," who is the daughter and mother of chiefs, and shows kindness to visitors like Mark.
Keetah
A young woman torn between the village's traditions and the outside world's opportunities, who records the myths and stories of her community.
Keetah’s Sister
A woman who suffers at the hands of a man from outside the village, leading to her tragic downfall.
T.P. Wallace
An elder and prolific speaker in the village, who includes Mark in important cultural ceremonies.
Peter
An elder carver in the village known for his spiritual connection to the deceased.
Jim Wallace
T.P.'s grandson who returns to Kingcome after exploring life beyond it. He aids Mark and is committed to the village traditions.
Gordon
A young man interested in leaving the village for educational opportunities in Vancouver, representing a new generation’s aspirations.
Calamity Bill
A 65-year-old logger living in a float house, known for his unique personal habits.
Sam
An alcoholic man in the village facing issues with violence in his household. He represents the social challenges within the community.
160
Novel • Fiction
British Columbia • Mid-20th Century
1967
Adult
14+ years
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