There There - Tommy Orange
Finished. Was a solid read for me, 4/5. One of its strongest aspects is how it dives deep into Indigenous identity. I learned so much about the diversity within Native culture, going beyond the usual stereotypes. The novel shows the complexities of "Urban Indians" and the reality that there's no single "Native experience". Each character has their own story, struggles, and unique connections to their heritage, which really brings out the richness of their culture. The book also tackles heavy themes like healing from trauma and violence caused by colonialism. Through each character, we see how generational trauma has left deep wounds in the community—how it manifests in their daily lives and their relationships. And the alcoholism problem I mentioned before. The narrative illustrates the effects of colonialism, not just as history but as a continuing force shaping lives and identities. These elements made the story feel raw and real, offering a glimpse into the pain and resilience of modern Native existence. That said, the ending felt chaotic and rushed, especially given the build-up. While it built up tension, it didn't provide the closure I was hoping for. On top of that, it wasn't the most pleasant experience since there were a lot of characters, making it difficult to understand and remember everything.
Coinex
