49 pages • 1 hour read
Mean Spirit
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Book Brief
384
Novel • Fiction
Oklahoma • 1920s
1990
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Mean Spirit by Linda Hogan is set in 1922 Watona, Oklahoma, where the murder of oil-rich Osage woman Grace Blanket and subsequent mysterious deaths expose a web of corruption, conspiracy, and anti-Indigenous violence aimed at stealing Osage oil rights. As law enforcement ignores the murders, a Lakota detective uncovers the crime ring, but the Osage community remains fearful for their safety amidst ongoing threats. Contains references to death by suicide and anti-Indigenous racism and violence.
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Contemplative
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
1,817 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
In Mean Spirit by Linda Hogan, readers praise the vivid portrayal of Native American culture and the gripping narrative centered around the Osage murders in the 1920s. While some find the pacing slow at times, the novel's rich historical context and complex characters are widely appreciated. Overall, it's a compelling, thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Mean Spirit?
Readers who appreciate historical fiction with a focus on Native American culture and environmental themes, similar to The Round House by Louise Erdrich or Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko, will enjoy Mean Spirit by Linda Hogan. The novel's rich narrative and intricate portrayal of characters appeal to those interested in social justice and indigenous history.
1,817 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Belle Graycloud
Belle Graycloud
An Osage woman deeply connected to her traditions, who acts as a matriarchal figure and caretaker within her community and family, including taking in Nola Blanket.
Michael Horse
Michael Horse
An elder in the Osage community who maintains traditional beliefs and practices, serving as a firekeeper and documenting the experiences of his people.
Stacy (Stace) Red Hawk
Stacy (Stace) Red Hawk
A Lakota man working for the US Bureau of Investigation, who dedicates himself to uncovering the truth behind the mysterious murders of Osage people.
John Hale
John Hale
A white oilman and primary antagonist in the narrative, involved in exploitative and unscrupulous activities that impact the Osage community.
Benoit
Benoit
An Osage horse trader known for his strong community ties and kind nature, who becomes wrongfully implicated in the crimes occurring around him.
John Stink
John Stink
An eccentric Osage hermit who, despite being thought to have died, continues to live with his pack of dogs, representing themes of persistence and cultural survival.
384
Novel • Fiction
Oklahoma • 1920s
1990
Adult
18+ years
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