42 pages • 1 hour read
Wenjack
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Book Brief
112
Novella • Fiction
Northern Ontario • 1960s
2016
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Wenjack by Joseph Boyden recounts the harrowing journey of Chanie “Charlie” Wenjack, who escapes from the Cecilia Jeffrey Indian Residential School in an attempt to return to his home in Ogoki Post, Northern Ontario. Along the way, Wenjack faces numerous challenges, including harsh weather, physical ailments, and the lack of guidance or resources, as he is watched over by the Manitous, spirits of the forest. The source text includes depictions of a minor's sexual assault and abuse within a residential school.
Melancholic
Mysterious
Contemplative
Dark
Reviews & Readership
7,202 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Overall, reviewers commend Joseph Boyden's Wenjack for its poignant and powerful storytelling, lauding its emotional depth and engaging narrative. The portrayal of the protagonist's journey is also highly praised for shedding light on historical injustices. However, some critics argue that the novella's brevity limits character development and narrative complexity.
Who Should Read Wenjack?
Readers who would enjoy Joseph Boyden's Wenjack are typically drawn to historical fiction and narratives about indigenous experiences. Fans of Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian and Louise Erdrich's The Round House will appreciate the poignant exploration of cultural identity and systemic injustices faced by indigenous people.
7,202 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
112
Novella • Fiction
Northern Ontario • 1960s
2016
Adult
18+ years
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