Native Americans in young adult novels may be protagonists themselves. They take on the journey of self - discovery, which often involves reconciling their Native American heritage with the modern world around them. Their role is also about representing their community and culture to the readers.
Often, they play the role of protectors. This could be protecting their land from outside threats in the story. Or they might be protecting their cultural heritage from being lost or misrepresented. In some novels, they are also the ones who bring about a change in the perspective of other characters, especially non - Native American characters, towards their culture and way of life.
Native Americans in young adult novels are often depicted in various ways. Sometimes they are shown as having a deep connection to nature. For example, in some novels, they might possess special knowledge about the land and animals. They can also be portrayed as having a rich cultural heritage that includes unique traditions, languages, and spiritual beliefs.
It really varies. Some Native Americans might not be familiar with them at all. For those who are, their opinions could range from finding them interesting to having concerns about cultural representation.
They can also be a source of inspiration for Asian American youth. When they see characters like them in novels, it gives them a sense of validation and belonging. It shows that their experiences are worthy of being told in literature.
Asian Americans in young adult novels can serve as important representatives of diversity. Their presence helps young readers, both Asian American and others, to understand different cultures better. They might be presented as having unique hobbies or skills related to their Asian heritage, such as martial arts or traditional arts like calligraphy. However, sometimes they are also misrepresented or stereotyped, for instance, being overly depicted as the 'model minority' without showing the full complexity of their lives.
One reason Native Americans tell stories is to preserve their traditions and teach important life lessons. Also, it helps to strengthen the community bonds and gives a sense of identity.
Native American Western novels reflect their culture in many ways. For example, through the use of native languages or the mention of traditional ceremonies. In 'Ceremony', the author Leslie Marmon Silko uses Laguna Pueblo language and describes kiva ceremonies, which are important aspects of Native American culture. These novels also show the relationship with the land, like how in 'Fools Crow', the connection between the Blackfeet tribe and the Montana landscape is depicted. It shows how the land is not just a physical place but a spiritual and cultural entity for Native Americans in the West.
It varies. Some Native Americans might appreciate the creativity and imagination in gear novels, while others might have concerns about cultural representation.
One of the best is 'The Absolutely True Diary of a Part - Time Indian' by Sherman Alexie. It's a semi - autobiographical story that follows a Native American boy's experiences in a white school. It deals with themes like identity, cultural clash, and the challenges of growing up in two different worlds.
Some do, some don't. There are Native Americans who have converted to the Mormon faith and thus believe in the Book of Mormon stories. But many Native Americans hold fast to their traditional beliefs and may not be inclined to accept the stories in the Book of Mormon. Their own spiritual systems are deeply rooted in their history and culture.
One well - known novel is 'Centennial' by James Michener. It has elements that touch on the relationship between Native Americans and horses in the context of the American West. Another is 'Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee' which, while mainly focused on the history and plight of Native Americans, also mentions their use of horses.