THERE THERE

by Tommy Orange

 I’ve been reading a lot of books since the COVID-19 quarantine began and There There is by far the most memorable. Orange artfully constructs the book around 12 characters, each of whom has different feelings about his or her Native American roots.  The setting is modern day Oakland, California. The characters are at once exotic in their differences and empathetic in their humanity.

I will never forget Tony Loneman, a 21-year-old of Cheyenne descent, who was born with fetal alcohol syndrome that he refers to as “the Drome.”  Tony lives with his grandmother, is caught up with drug dealers and finds himself planning a robbery at an Indian powwow at the Oakland Coliseum.  Memorable too is Orvil Red Feather, a 14-year-old whose secret desire to learn about his heritage pushes him to dance the native dance.  There’s Opal Viola Victoria Bear Shield, Dene Oxendene and Blue – all beautifully drawn characters.  Orange’s telling of the story is very cinematic.  And the climactic scene at the Big Oakland Powwow – where all 12 characters convene – is one I’m not likely to forget.

There There is a beautifully written story told in a compelling way.  It is a book unlike any other I have read and I recommend it highly. (Liz)