N. Scott Momaday
N. Scott Momaday is a Kiowa novelist, short story writer, essayist, and poet. His work is often centered on his Native American heritage, particularly his connection to the Kiowa culture. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1969 for his novel 'House Made of Dawn,' which is considered a significant work in Native American literature. Momaday is also known for his poetry and his role in the Native American Renaissance, a period of increased literary output by Native American authors in the late 20th century.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. House Made of Dawn
The novel delves into the life of a young Native American man named Abel who returns home to his New Mexico Pueblo reservation after serving in World War II. Struggling with the trauma of war and the cultural dislocation caused by years away from his traditional tribal life, Abel tries to find his identity and place in a world that is torn between ancient tribal traditions and the modern white society. His journey of self-discovery and redemption is poignantly narrated, highlighting the struggles faced by Native Americans in the contemporary world.
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2. The Names
"The Names" is a memoir that explores the author's Native American heritage and identity through a series of personal and family anecdotes, historical events, and tribal stories. The narrative unfolds in chronological order, starting with the author's ancestors and ending with his own life, providing a deep understanding of his Kiowa roots and the importance of names in their tradition. The book also touches on the themes of memory, history, and the power of language.
