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Drew Hayden Taylor

Motorcycles and Sweetgrass

Drew Hayden TaylorFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010

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Book Brief

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Drew Hayden Taylor

Motorcycles and Sweetgrass

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

348

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ontario, Canada • Contemporary

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

4.1

2,840 ratings

63%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Motorcycles and Sweetgrass?

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.

4.1

2,840 ratings

63%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

348

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ontario, Canada • Contemporary

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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