_The Round House_ by Louise Erdrich
Back in my literature major days, I was introduced to the name of Louise Erdrich as a prominent and talented Native American writer. In those days I was not interested in contemporary or modern fiction and was not really sure that I cared to read about Native American culture, even though I have always held a fascination with their history.
So, when I was trying to prepare for my summer reading, I looked up top reads and this title kept popping up. Since I am starting to run out of classics and my interests are coming more into the modern-day, I thought it was time for me to give this genre/style a try.
I’m glad I did.
When I heard the title, I imagined a house that was round or that it had some sort of symbolic meaning. In reality, both are accurate. However, a round house is also known as a sweat lodge in our world. I associate new age thinkers and free spirits with sweat lodges, going there to sweat out the negative energies. Then, I recalled the importance of these round houses to the Native Americans.
The story revolves around the mystery of capturing a man who rapes the main character’s mother. Seen through the eyes of a young boy (maybe 10?), the complications between Native American and white relationships, legalities of reservation life and events, and family issues are intertwined throughout the story.
Overall, it was a beautifully written story and gave me more insight into a world that I do not often pay any attention to. I think there will be more books on my reading by this author in the near future! π
-T π
