71 pages • 2 hours read
Monkey Beach
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Book Brief
377
Novel • Fiction
Kitamaat, Canada • 1990s
2014
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Monkey Beach by Eden Robinson is set in the Haisla village of Kitamaat, British Columbia, and follows teenager Lisa Hill as she grapples with the mysterious disappearance of her brother, Jimmy. Through a blend of memories, Lisa explores her supernatural abilities and her strained relationships, especially with her family. The narrative interweaves past and present, moving from childhood reflections to Lisa's determination to uncover the truth about Jimmy's fate. The book contains sensitive themes including sexual assault and death.
Mysterious
Melancholic
Contemplative
Emotional
Dark
Reviews & Readership
10,328 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Eden Robinson's Monkey Beach is praised for its vivid depiction of Haisla culture, intertwining supernatural elements with raw, emotional storytelling. Critics commend the protagonist's complex characterization and the rich, atmospheric setting. Some note the narrative can feel disjointed, but overall, it offers a compelling, intricate read that resonates deeply.
Who Should Read Monkey Beach?
Fans of Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko and The Round House by Louise Erdrich will appreciate Monkey Beach by Eden Robinson. This novel blends Indigenous culture, supernatural elements, and mystery, making it ideal for readers interested in contemporary Indigenous literature and coming-of-age stories with a mystical twist.
10,328 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jimmy
Jimmy
Lisa's brother whose mysterious disappearance on a fishing trip drives much of the plot. He serves as a foil to Lisa with his popularity and ambition, which change after an injury.
Ma-ma-oo
Ma-ma-oo
Lisa's grandmother and a crucial link to Haisla culture. She supports Lisa and helps her understand her spiritual abilities, providing a nurturing environment.
Mick
Mick
Lisa's uncle, influential in her life by sharing a rebellious streak. He raises awareness about social justice and Indigenous rights, and his relationship with Lisa matures her understanding of complexities in people.
Tab
Tab
Lisa’s cousin who impacts Lisa by being a friend and shared personal struggles. She serves as a voice of reason, introducing Lisa to rebellious ideas and ultimately helps ground her.
377
Novel • Fiction
Kitamaat, Canada • 1990s
2014
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.