In today’s post, we’re delving into “There There” by Tommy Orange, a remarkable novel that nestles itself within the genre of literary fiction and more specifically contemporary Native American literature. The aim here is to acquaint you with the intricate layers of Orange’s narrative and its ensemble of characters, all without giving away the pivotal moments that make this novel a compelling read.
We’ll start by offering a succinct summary of the plot, laying the groundwork for understanding the converging lives of the characters as they head toward the climactic Big Oakland Powwow. Following that, we’ll delve into the complexities of these characters, revealing the depth of their struggles, hopes, and interconnected fates. To conclude, I’ll provide a series of thought-provoking questions designed for book club discussions or personal reflection, aiming to enhance your engagement with this unforgettable story.
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There There Book Summary
“There There” by Tommy Orange intricately centers around the lives of twelve characters from Native communities, all of whom are connected in ways they are yet to discover. These characters, each with their distinct voices and stories, converge on the Big Oakland Powwow, a pivotal event that becomes the focal point of their interconnectedness.
Jacquie Red Feather is navigating the path to recovery, striving to rebuild the bridges with the family she once abandoned. Dene Oxendene is piecing his life back together after his uncle’s death, channeling his energies into honoring his memory through his involvement with the powwow. Then there’s Orvil, a fourteen-year-old boy poised to perform traditional dance for the first time, seeking connection to his heritage and community.
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As the day of the Big Oakland Powwow dawns, the paths of these characters and others intertwine and clash in unforeseen ways. The event becomes a crucible for their individual and collective struggles, aspirations, and quests for identity. Through these characters, Orange explores the complex mosaic of urban Native American life, marked by a rich but painful history, a striving for spiritual connection, and the pursuit of personal and communal healing.
The narrative culminates in a dramatic conclusion at the powwow, where the characters’ lives intersect in moments of tension, tragedy, and revelation. Their stories, though divergent, weave together a larger narrative about the resilience of the human spirit, the enduring power of community, and the unshakeable bond to one’s heritage.
There There Book Characters
In “There There” by Tommy Orange, the narrative is propelled by a diverse cast of characters, each with their own distinct storyline yet interconnected through heritage and the central event of the Big Oakland Powwow. Here’s a brief look at some of the key characters:
- Jacquie Red Feather is in recovery for alcoholism and is trying to reconnect with her family, including her estranged daughters. Her journey is one of seeking forgiveness and reclaiming her identity.
- Dene Oxendene is grappling with his uncle’s death and finds purpose in working to document Native stories in Oakland, inspired by his uncle’s legacy. His participation in the powwow is both a tribute and a step towards fulfilling his own aspirations.
- Opal Viola Victoria Bear Shield is Jacquie’s half-sister, who plays a crucial role in raising Jacquie’s grandchildren. Opal’s story intertwines with her past, reflecting on her childhood and the activism of her Aunt Donna.
- Orvil Red Feather, one of Jacquie’s grandsons, has taught himself traditional dances through YouTube videos and decides to participate in the powwow. His story is one of self-discovery and connecting with his roots.
- Tony Loneman struggles with the effects of fetal alcohol syndrome, which he calls “the Drome.” Tony’s narrative explores themes of perception, identity, and the desire to be seen and understood beyond his condition.
- Edwin Black is a young man wrestling with his identity, his relationship with his mother, and his unknown father. His journey is marked by his quest for meaning and belonging, both in his personal life and within the broader Native community.
- Blue is a woman who has escaped a violent relationship and works at the powwow. Her story is one of resilience, the search for safety, and the hope of starting anew.
- Thomas Frank is a drum group organizer at the powwow, where his story intersects with his passion for music and his role within the community.
- Calvin Johnson finds himself entangled in a complicated relationship with his family and friends, highlighting the complexities of personal connections and loyalty.
There There Book Club Questions
Here are some thought-provoking questions to get your book club conversation started:
- Exploration of Identity: How do the characters in “There There” navigate their Native American identities in an urban setting? Discuss how identity is formed, challenged, and revealed throughout the novel.
- Interconnectedness of Characters: The novel weaves together the stories of twelve characters who are connected in ways they may not initially realize. Which connections did you find most surprising or impactful? How does Orange use these interconnections to build the narrative?
- Role of the Powwow: The Big Oakland Powwow serves as a pivotal event in the novel. Discuss its significance to the various characters and to the broader themes of community and tradition. How does the powwow function as both a setting and a character in the story?
- Impact of History and Trauma: “There There” delves into the complex and painful history of Native Americans. How do the characters’ personal histories reflect broader historical traumas? How do they cope with or confront these legacies?
- Symbolism of the Spider Legs Prologue: The prologue of the novel features a powerful metaphor of spider legs, relating to the creation story and the concept of storytelling. How does this metaphor resonate throughout the novel? What does it reveal about the power and purpose of stories?
- Character Development: Choose a character whose journey particularly resonated with you. How does this character evolve throughout the novel? What are the key moments that define their transformation?
- Themes of Violence and Redemption: The novel addresses themes of violence, both personal and historical, as well as the potential for redemption. Discuss how these themes are portrayed through the characters’ stories. Are there moments of redemption or hope, and if so, how are they achieved?
- Use of Non-Linear Narrative: “There There” employs a non-linear narrative structure, with chapters jumping between different characters’ perspectives and points in time. How did this structure affect your reading experience? What might Orange be suggesting about the nature of story and history?
- Cultural Representation and Voice: Tommy Orange has been praised for bringing Native American voices to the forefront of contemporary literature. Discuss how the novel contributes to the representation of Native American cultures and voices. Did the novel challenge or change any of your perceptions?
- Implications of the Ending: Without spoiling the ending, discuss your reactions to the novel’s conclusion. What emotions were you left with, and what do you believe Orange was trying to convey? How does the ending speak to the themes of the novel as a whole?
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Final thoughts
To conclude, I hope that you have found this short review interesting and enlightening. “There There” by Tommy Orange is a riveting exploration of identity, community, and the resilience of the human spirit within the urban Native American landscape. Its intricate narrative, which masterfully interweaves the lives of twelve distinct characters on their paths to the Big Oakland Powwow, offers a profound look into the heart and soul of a community often marginalized in literature. If you have not already had the opportunity to dive into this National Book Critics Circle Award Winner and Pulitzer Prize Finalist, I highly recommend doing so.