I finished reading Sherman Alexie’s book Reservation Blues, about a group of Spokane Indians who learn to play instruments and give a go at success as an all-Native American band. I would call this a fantasy, because there is magic, but not much magic. There is the Devil’s guitar and an ancient shaman named Big Mom, and so forth. I have seen the book called magical realism, which might be a better characterization.
The characters, both male and female, are interesting, and their struggles to become a successful Native American band are amusing. One of the band members sells out his friend, who commits suicide as a result. I liked the characters and wished them well in their struggles. I won’t tell you how it goes, but some win and some lose, and some lose forever.
The storytelling is first-rate; Alexie’s style is accessible and fun to read. He employs humor frequently, though this is not a comedic story. You’ll get a funny take on reservation life and can chuckle throughout the book. Good stuff!
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