A review by robertrivasplata
LaRose by Louise Erdrich

dark emotional funny inspiring mysterious reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Novel about the experience of growing up Indigenous, across multiple generations, as well as the connections between the reservation and the outside (mostly white) society. The boarding schools figure prominently, with some characters having ambivalent relationships with them, & Romeo having positive feelings about his time at the boarding school. Quite upbeat for a book where a young child is killed on the first page. Features a Chekhov's (unloaded) rifle. Characters include ghosts, spirits, a hot priest, & a dog (who survives). Romeo's revenge plot is a little anti-climactic. I was interested in Romeo, but I couldn't get that interested in whatever big bad secret he was sitting on. Set 1999-2003, with such millennial era markers as Y2K preppers & the start of the Iraq war. Will need to re-read to be fully prepared for the book club meeting.