Tommy Orange’s first novel There There is a relentlessly
paced multi-generational story about violence and recovery, memory and identity,
and the beauty and despair woven into the history of a nation and its people.
(cover blurb)
He intertwines twelve characters as they travel to the Big
Oakland Pow wow. Each has their reasons – explore traditions, face their
heritage, honor family, and question the life and plight of urban Native
Americans. Here is a voice we have never heard – a voice full of
poetry and rage, exploding on to the page with stunning urgency and force.
(cover blurb) As a member of the Cheyenne and Apache tribes of Oklahoma,
Tommy Orange explores complex history, writes of spirituality, and looks at
addictions and abuse as he introduces his characters. Each character is
interesting and complex. They live in a world I’ve not seen, but I’m aware of
from current news.
This work of fiction is quite strong, relevant, and thought
provoking. I liked his writing and voice and the characters stuck with me even
after the final page. There is a There There worth exploring.
