The Lightning Within: An Anthology of Contemporary American Indian Fiction [Paperback]

Alan Velie (Editor, Introduction)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 1, 1993

American Indian stories have fascinated the world for all the right reasons: vigor, depth, subtlety, brightness. In the 1960s a brilliant renaissance began. Out of it came such gifted writers of fiction as N. Scott Momaday, James Welch, Leslie Marmon Silko, Gerald Vizenor, Simon Ortiz, Louise Erdrich, and Michael Dorris. In bringing them together, The Lightning Within celebrates some of the best work being done today in the novel and short story.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Nine outstanding stories by Native American authors including Louise Erdrich, N. Scott Momaday, Michael Dorris and Leslie Silko.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From School Library Journal

YA-- The work of seven writers (N. Scott Momaday, James Welch, Leslie Marmon Silko, Gerald Vizenor, Simon Ortiz, Louise Erdrich, and Michael Dorris) makes up this impressive collection. The selections, mainly from novels, are alike only in the rich use of language, power of imagery, and depth of feeling. Preceding each story is a short explanation of it, a biographical sketch of the author, and brief critical notes on major works. If a myth or legend is important, it is explained. This introduction greatly aids readers' appreciation and understanding, although the story by Vizenorremains obscure. Recurring themesinclude the importance of religiousritual and belief, pride in heritage,memory of the old ways (and the mingling of these with the ways of the white man), the pain of change, and the loss of dignity. The manner in which American Indians and whites regard one another is woven into the stories with humor and pain. Mature YAs will learn much about Native American heritage and culture from this fine book by masters of their craft. --Judy Sokoll, Fairfax County Public Library, VA

Copyright 1991 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 164 pages
• Publisher: University of Nebraska Press (October 1, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0803296142
• ISBN-13: 978-0803296145
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,013,096 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)