Crying for a Dream: The World through Native American Eyes : Book Review

"Crying for a Dream" by Richard Erdoes is an incredibly poignant and thought-provoking book that delves into the struggles and challenges faced by Native Americans. Through a series of powerful narratives, Erdoes explores themes such as identity, cultural preservation, and the long-lasting impact of colonization on indigenous communities.

What sets this book apart is its ability to provide readers with an intimate look into the lives of various Native American individuals. Erdoes skillfully crafts each narrative, allowing us to empathize with the characters and gain a deeper understanding of their unique perspectives. These stories range from personal accounts of discrimination and displacement to reflections on the importance of maintaining cultural traditions.

One of the strengths of "Crying for a Dream" is Erdoes' ability to convey the complex emotions and struggles faced by Native Americans. Through his writing, he addresses the historical trauma inflicted by the colonization of indigenous lands and the ongoing issues of marginalization and poverty faced by many Native communities. The book serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of Native American people.

Erdoes also explores the theme of cultural preservation, emphasizing the importance of preserving and celebrating indigenous traditions and values. He highlights that the preservation of these cultural aspects is crucial for the well-being and empowerment of Native American communities. The book inspires readers to reflect on the significance of cultural diversity and the importance of respecting and preserving indigenous cultures.

In "Crying for a Dream," Richard Erdoes provides a powerful and illuminating exploration of the Native American experience. Through his masterful storytelling and insightful narratives, he invites readers to embark on a journey of understanding and empathy. This book serves as a significant contribution to the literature on Native American history, culture, and identity, and is a must-read for anyone interested in gaining a deeper appreciation for the Native American perspective.

What are readers saying?

The book "Crying for a Dream" by Richard Erdoes has elicited a variety of responses from readers. This book delves into the life and struggles of Native American activist Leonard Peltier. Some readers have praised Erdoes for his detailed and thorough account of Peltier's story, appreciating his ability to bring the experiences of Peltier to life. They believe that the book sheds light on a crucial but often overlooked part of American history, providing valuable insight into the Native American experience and the injustices faced by Peltier.

However, not all readers share this positive view. Some readers feel that the book is biased and lacks objectivity. They argue that Erdoes clearly portrays Peltier as a hero, compromising the accuracy of the narrative. These readers believe that the book fails to present a balanced perspective on Peltier's case and his involvement in the events at Pine Ridge Reservation.

In addition, some readers found the writing style of "Crying for a Dream" to be overly dense and difficult to follow. They struggled to connect with the narrative and felt that the slow-paced nature of the book hindered their enjoyment. These readers suggest that a more engaging and accessible writing style would have improved their experience.

On the other hand, there were readers who appreciated Erdoes' writing style, finding it poetic and evocative. They enjoyed the vivid imagery and descriptive language used throughout the book, as it enhanced their understanding of Peltier's experiences and emotions.

Overall, "Crying for a Dream" has generated mixed reviews from readers. While some were deeply moved by the book's exploration of Native American history and activism, others found it biased and inaccessible. Therefore, individual preferences and perspectives greatly influence readers' opinions of the book.

CryingForADream BookLovers Dreamers