The University Of Utah: Books For Native American History Month

Press release from The University of Utah:

Marriott Library

October 28, 2021

November marks National Native American Heritage Month! Join us in paying tribute to the rich ancestry and traditions of the original inhabitants of this land. According to the National Park Services, “the history, traditions, and culture of Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians are part of every national park [and communities across the country] today.” This month, and every month, we celebrate these remarkable indigenous Americans who deeply enrich the quality and character of our Nation.

In celebration, here are a few book available at the J. Willard Marriott Library recommended by librarian Allyson Mower.

The Bear River Massacre: A Shoshone History By Darren Parry

Learn more about this tragic historical event from the perspective of the Shoshone people as told by tribal leader Darren Parry.

CHECK IT OUT

The Only Good Indians By Stephen Graham Jones

I loved this book! Elkhead Woman is such an amazing character and Lewis and everybody…they all draw you through this fantastical revenge story with complete fascination and humanity. And if you’ve watched Reservation Dogs, you’ll get the connection to Elkhead Woman.

CHECK IT OUT

The Night Watchman By Louise Erdrich

Erdrich is one of my favorite authors and I recommend all of her books, but this is one of her newest ones and it touches on many important topics: disenfranchisement, missing indigenous women, and tribal authority. The way Erdrich addresses big topics is through endearing characters, humor, and beautiful writing. You’ll love the Paul Bunyan character.

CHECK IT OUT

Weenoocheeyoo peesaduehnee yak:anup: Stories of our Ancestors By the Uintah-Ouray Ute Tribe and Clifford Duncan

A slim, bilingual book with beautiful illustrations that tells the stories of the Bear Dance, the creation, and Bears Ears country.

CHECK IT OUT

Postcolonial Love Poem By Natalie Diaz

I haven’t read much poetry in my life, but I regret not having done so because this book and Diaz’s writing is superb. After watching the show Reservation Dogs, I especially liked the poem “Top Ten Reasons Indians Are Good at Basketball.”

CHECK IT OUT

There, There By Tommy Orange

A novel told from the perspective of many different narrators who are all making their way to the Big Oakland Powwow.  The threads of each of their stories end up weaving together in very interesting ways.

CHECK IT OUT

This press release was produced by The University of Utah. The views expressed here are the author’s own.