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97 pages 3 hours read

Tracks

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1988

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Book Brief

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Louise Erdrich

Tracks

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1988
Book Details
Pages

226

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North Dakota • 1910s

Publication Year

1988

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Tracks by Louise Erdrich chronicles the struggles of the Chippewa tribe in the early twentieth century through the voices of elder Nanapush and orphan Pauline. The tribe faces immense challenges from disease, starvation, and government land seizure. Central to the story is Fleur Pillager, renowned for her strength and mystical aura, who fights to retain her land amidst increasing pressure. Topics include rape, physical violence, and religious mania.

Mysterious

Dark

Melancholic

Contemplative

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.1

13,713 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Louise Erdrich's Tracks is widely praised for its rich storytelling, vivid character development, and seamless blending of Native American culture and mythology. Critics commend its lyrical prose and intricate narrative structure. However, some find the alternating first-person perspectives confusing and the plot pacing uneven. Overall, the novel is a compelling and powerful work.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Tracks?

Readers who appreciate Tracks by Louise Erdrich typically enjoy intricate narratives exploring Native American culture and history. Fans of works like Leslie Marmon Silko's Ceremony or Toni Morrison's Beloved will likely find the mystical elements and deep character development appealing.

4.1

13,713 ratings

71%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Nanapush

An elder and co-narrator, known for his storytelling and wisdom, who plays a paternal role in raising Fleur Pillager and her daughter Lulu while navigating the challenges faced by the Chippewa tribe.

The second narrator, a character who struggles with her identity and seeks acceptance outside the reservation, creating a stark contrast to Nanapush's perspectives with her often unreliable accounts.

The central character known for her strength and resilience, whose story is told through the narrations of Nanapush and Pauline, representing the enduring spirit of the Chippewa people.

A determined and strong-willed woman, mother of Eli and Nector, who navigates survival alongside Nanapush and plays a significant role in the tribal dynamics and family relations.

Son of Margaret and husband to Fleur, who faces conflicts between his family's needs and his loyalty to Fleur, reflecting the intersection of personal and communal challenges.

Fleur Pillager's daughter, raised with the influence of both Nanapush and Eli, whose relationships and decisions are central to the familial and communal storyline.

Book Details
Pages

226

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

North Dakota • 1910s

Publication Year

1988

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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