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39 pages 1 hour read

The Round House

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

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Louise Erdrich

The Round House

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

323

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North Dakota • 1980s

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

790L

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Super Short Summary

The Round House by Louise Erdrich centers around the rape and near murder of Geraldine Coutts, a Native American woman on a North Dakota reservation, as recounted by her thirteen-year-old son, Joe. Joe and his father, Bazil, navigate a complex legal and moral landscape to seek justice, revealing deep insights into family, culture, and the flaws of the justice system. The book contains descriptions of sexual violence and trauma.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Emotional

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.1

130,718 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Louise Erdrich's The Round House has been widely praised for its gripping narrative and emotional depth, exploring themes of justice and identity through the lens of a Native American family. However, some critics feel the pacing occasionally lags. Overall, it's a compelling, thought-provoking read, lauded for its rich character development and cultural insights.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Round House?

Readers who appreciate deep explorations of Native American life, coming-of-age narratives, and complex moral questions will enjoy The Round House by Louise Erdrich. Ideal for fans of Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian and Toni Morrison's Beloved, it weaves cultural insight with gripping storytelling.

4.1

130,718 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Joe Coutts

A thirteen-year-old boy who is determined to uncover and understand the circumstances of a traumatic event that deeply affects his family. His experiences reflect both his coming-of-age journey and his life on the reservation.

Joe's father, a respected judge on the reservation, who is committed to justice and deeply affected by family turmoil. His guidance influences Joe's perceptions and actions throughout the narrative.

Joe's mother and Bazil's wife, known for her vibrant personality and role as the tribal enrollment specialist. Her experiences and relationships with other characters significantly impact the story's events.

An antagonist figure with a troubled past, known for his business dealings and complex personal relationships. His actions play a central role in driving the narrative conflict.

One of Joe's closest friends, known for his loyalty and participation in traditional ceremonies. He supports Joe during challenging times and their friendship is pivotal in the story.

Linden's estranged twin sister, raised by the Wishkob family, who navigates her complex family ties and plays a supportive role in the narrative. Her personal history and actions contribute to key developments in the story.

Book Details
Pages

323

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North Dakota • 1980s

Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

790L

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