Learn, Teach, Challenge: Approaching Indigenous Literatures

by Deanna Reder (Editor), Linda M. Morra (Editor)

This is a collection of classic and newly commissioned essays about the study of Indigenous literatures in North America. The contributing scholars include some of the most venerable Indigenous theorists, among them Gerald Vizenor (Anishinaabe), Jeannette Armstrong (Okanagan), Craig Womack (Creek), Kimberley Blaeser (Anishinaabe), Emma LaRocque (Metis), Daniel Heath Justice (Cherokee), Janice Acoose (Saulteaux), and Jo-Ann Episkenew (Metis). Also included are settler scholars foundational to the field, including Helen Hoy, Margery Fee, and Renate Eigenbrod. Among the newer voices are both settler and Indigenous theorists such as Sam McKegney, Keavy Martin, and Niigaanwewidam Sinclair.

The volume is organized into five subject areas: Position, the necessity of considering where you come from and who you are; Imagining Beyond Images and Myths, a history and critique of circulating images of Indigenousness; Debating Indigenous Literary Approaches; Contemporary Concerns, a consideration of relevant issues; and finally Classroom Considerations, pedagogical concerns particular to the field. Each section is introduced by an essay that orients the reader and provides ideological context. While anthologies of literary criticism have focused on specific issues related to this burgeoning field, this volume is the first to offer comprehensive perspectives on the subject.

Genres: Education

485 pages, Paperback

First published March 31, 2016

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, I have to say that, in the 10 years since this collection of amazing essays was written, Indigenous literature(s), the study of it and critical essays about it have expanded so much! So, this is a great resource but should be complemented with more recent essays, opinions and insights. That being said, I think any teacher who teaches Indigenous literatures should definitely read this collection of essays by Indigenous and non-Indigenous scholars, academics, and lived experience experts.

In particular, I found several essays extremely important and relevant and will definitely include them on my syllabus next year, as well as the introduction to the book. Helen Hoy’s excerpt from How should I read these? (originally published as a book of essays in 2001) offers a compelling look at postcolonial analysis of Indigenous literature starting with Eden Robinson’s Traplines (itself a great read), and Margaret Kovach’s essay is great to introduce students to the idea that Indigenous researchers must consider “self-location, purpose and cultural grounding” when embarking on inquiry journeys. I think this is a key message to send to students (both Indigenous and non-Indigenous student researchers.) The Hunting and Harvesting of Inuit Literature is also a great read.

I highly recommend the book!

[Malou · Rating 5 out of 5]

Important book and work of reference for the field of Indigenous literary studies. This book is definitely useful for students, professors, and researchers alike.
For comprehensive exams, I found this an excellent work of reference, and it made texts that are not necessarily easily available better accessible as they are all gathered here.

[James Gifford · Rating 5 out of 5]

I reviewed this book for The Year's Work in English Studies, vol. 97 (2018): https://academic.oup.com/ywes/ – this collection is ideal for classroom use and also as a resource (particularly for public libraries that won't have access to as much of the original materials).