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46 pages 1 hour read

The Marrow Thieves

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2017

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Book Brief

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Cherie Dimaline

The Marrow Thieves

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

260

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Canada • Dystopian Future

Theme
Publication Year

2017

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL810L

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Super Short Summary

In a post-apocalyptic Canada ravaged by climate change, 16-year-old Frenchie escapes from government Recruiters who hunt Indigenous peoples for their bone marrow to restore the lost ability to dream. He joins a group of Indigenous survivors led by Miigwans, forming bonds and facing numerous challenges, while the story alternates between their current struggles and past experiences. This novel includes themes of violence, trauma, and loss.

Mysterious

Dark

Melancholic

Emotional

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.2

41,765 ratings

74%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Dimaline's The Marrow Thieves intricately weaves a dystopian narrative with profound cultural elements. Praised for its compelling storytelling and strong character development, the novel offers an intense, empathetic portrayal of Indigenous struggles and resilience. However, some readers noted pacing issues and a desire for deeper world-building. Overall, an impactful and evocative read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Marrow Thieves?

Readers who would enjoy The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline are typically fans of dystopian young adult fiction with strong themes of survival, resilience, and Indigenous culture. Similar works include The Hunger Games and The Maze Runner, blending gripping adventures with deep, socio-political commentary.

4.2

41,765 ratings

74%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Frenchie (Francis)

The 16-year-old, Métis protagonist of the novel. Frenchie joins Miig's group after losing his family to the schools. He falls in love with Rose and tries to understand his Indigenous heritage. Frenchie grows from a scared kid to a leader throughout the novel.

Leader of the group and a father figure to Frenchie. He forms a surrogate family while on the run and teaches them survival skills and cultural stories.

The oldest member of the group and an Elder with a deep connection to Indigenous culture. She sacrifices herself for the group's safety.

A responsible, resilient member who takes on various roles like runner and hunter. Wab reveals her traumatic past and eventually finds some stability in the Council’s camp.

Half-Indigenous, she joins Miig's group and becomes Frenchie's love interest. She is seen as a rebel and influences Frenchie to become more of a fighter.

The youngest member of the group, sweet and naïve, who looks up to Frenchie as an older brother. Her tragic death deeply impacts Frenchie.

Frenchie's father who is missing for a large part of the story. Frenchie finds him later, and their reunion is emotionally complicated due to past abandonment.

A young member of the group who is often hungry and confused by complex situations. He experiences trauma that affects his understanding of the group's stories.

Twelve-year-old twins rescued by Miig. They share a strong bond and have scars from past torture by townspeople.

The oldest boy in the group, serving as a scout. He is in a relationship with Wab and is a quiet, obedient character.

Two traitorous Natives encountered in the woods. Lincoln is involved in the tragedy that befalls RiRi, which results in violent repercussions from Frenchie.

Around Frenchie's age, Derrick appears when the Council's scouts find Miig's group. He is skilled in traditional Indigenous activities and causes tension with Frenchie due to his interactions with Rose.

Book Details
Pages

260

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Canada • Dystopian Future

Theme
Publication Year

2017

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL810L

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