Audiobook Sample
Listen to the sample to experience the story.
Please wait while we verify your browser...
- Title: Great American Indian Stories – Part I – II
- Author: Ohiyesa
- Narrator: Michael Scott
- Length: 0.088194444
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 30-Oct
- Publisher: Thought Audio
- Genre: Fiction & Literature, Essays & Anthologies
- ISBN13: SABTAXX978056
As I settled into my favorite armchair, a steaming cup of yerba mate in hand, I pressed play on ‘Great American Indian Stories – Part I – II’ by Ohiyesa, narrated by Michael Scott. The opening lines transported me back to a memory I hold dear—sitting around a campfire in the heart of Oaxaca, listening to a grandmother recount tales of her ancestors. There’s something profoundly moving about oral storytelling, and this audiobook captures that essence beautifully.
Charles Eastman, writing under his Dakota name Ohiyesa, offers a collection of stories that are both poignant and illuminating. The narratives delve into the lives of American Indians during the 19th century, a time of immense upheaval and cultural intrusion. Themes of survival, cultural identity, and the clash between tradition and modernity are explored with a depth that only someone with Eastman’s dual perspective could achieve.
Michael Scott’s narration is nothing short of masterful. His voice carries the weight of the stories, imbuing each word with a sense of authenticity and respect. Listening to him, I was reminded of my journey through the Atacama Desert, where the landscape and the stories seemed to merge into a single, timeless narrative. Scott’s timing, his use of silence, and his ability to convey emotion made the listening experience feel intimate, as if he were speaking directly to me.
The stories themselves are a blend of historical insight and cultural reflection. ‘The Grave of the Dog’ and ‘The Famine’ particularly stood out to me, painting vivid pictures of resilience and the harsh realities faced by Native American communities. Eastman’s writing is clear and evocative, offering a nuanced understanding of a period often misrepresented in mainstream history.
However, no work is without its critiques. Some may argue that Eastman’s narratives occasionally romanticize certain aspects of Native American life. Yet, this is balanced by his firsthand experiences and his commitment to accuracy. The audiobook format, with Scott’s narration, enhances the accessibility of these stories, making them available to a broader audience.
Comparing this to other works like Zitkala-Sa’s ‘American Indian Stories’ and Sherman Alexie’s ‘The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven,’ Eastman’s collection holds its own as a vital contribution to Native American literature. It’s a reminder of the power of storytelling to preserve culture and history.
For those who cherish cultural narratives and historical depth, this audiobook is a treasure. The free availability makes it an even more compelling listen. So, whether you’re on a long drive, relaxing at home, or simply seeking a moment of reflection, ‘Great American Indian Stories – Part I – II’ is a journey worth taking.
As I finished the last chapter, I felt a renewed appreciation for the resilience and richness of Native American cultures. It’s a reminder of how stories, especially those told aloud, can bridge gaps and foster understanding.
With cultural curiosity and literary appreciation, Marcus Rivera
