Plot Summary

War Dances

Sherman Alexie
Guide cover placeholder

War Dances

Fiction | Short Story Collection | Adult | Published in 2009

Book Brief

Sherman Alexie

War Dances

Fiction | Short Story Collection | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Short Story Collection • Fiction

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

790L

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Super Short Summary

War Dances by Sherman Alexie is a 2009 collection of short stories and poetry exploring contemporary Native American experiences, touching on themes such as history's influence, the power of words, loneliness, and unexpected surprises. The collection includes pieces like "Breaking and Entering," focusing on George Wilson's isolation after defending himself from a teenager's attack, and "War Dances," featuring a narrator confronting past medical issues while reflecting on family. Sensitive topics such as violent encounters and fights related to identity are present.

Humorous

Contemplative

Emotional

Bittersweet

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

7,227 ratings

72%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Sherman Alexie's War Dances is lauded for its compelling storytelling and poignant themes, blending humor with profound insights into Native American life. Critics praise the author's use of diverse literary forms and his distinctive voice. However, some feel the narrative can be disjointed, with abrupt shifts between stories and poems. Overall, it's celebrated for its emotional depth and cultural commentary.

Who should read this

Who Should Read War Dances?

Readers who enjoy War Dances by Sherman Alexie typically appreciate contemporary short stories and poetry that explore themes of Native American identity, family, and cultural displacement. Fans of The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven by Alexie or There There by Tommy Orange would find this work compelling and thought-provoking.

4.2

7,227 ratings

72%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Short Story Collection • Fiction

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

790L

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