100 pages • 3 hours read
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348
Novel • Fiction
Ontario, Canada • Contemporary
2010
Adult
14-18 years
Motorcycles & Sweetgrass by Drew Hayden Taylor follows Maggie, the chief of the Otter Lake First Nation band, who, following her mother's death, encounters the trickster demigod Nanabush. Nanabush, posing as a stranger, romances Maggie and disrupts the community while attempting to protect their land. Themes include the complexities of Indigenous life, cultural preservation, and the clash between ancient beliefs and modernity. The narrative contains references to the trauma of residential schools.
Humorous
Fantastical
Mysterious
Playful
Nostalgic
2,840 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Drew Hayden Taylor’s Motorcycles and Sweetgrass offers a humorous and heartfelt exploration of modern Indigenous life, blending magical realism and cultural commentary. While praised for its engaging narrative and witty dialogue, some found the plot occasionally predictable. Overall, it’s a charming and thought-provoking read.
Readers who enjoy the blend of humor, indigenous folklore, and contemporary issues in Louise Erdrich's The Round House or Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian would appreciate Drew Hayden Taylor's Motorcycles and Sweetgrass. This novel is perfect for those seeking a witty and insightful look at modern Native life.
2,840 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
348
Novel • Fiction
Ontario, Canada • Contemporary
2010
Adult
14-18 years
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