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A review by kellyjcm
Rain Is Not My Indian Name by Cynthia Leitich Smith
4.0
This story was different from what I was expecting. It is focused a lot on the main character, Rain, and her struggle with grief following the death of her best friend, Galen. Since I knew this was by a Native American writer, I think I expected it to be the focal point. It wasn't; instead, it is worked throughout the narrative naturally. Just as it should be.
Rain deals with her grief by hiding, physically and emotionally. Ms. Smith skillfully uses certain literary devices, such as the camera as a symbol and the diary entries at the beginning of each chapter, to deepen the story and enhance the reader's understanding of Rain and her world.
Amidst her intense grief, Rain also deals with issues of honesty, friendship, and injustice. The supporting characters are well developed, and offer some humor for the reader, provide Rain with necessary perspective, and realistically depict a small community.
I was happy that the novel did not tie up every single plotline, but left a lot to the reader's imagination and interpretation. Most importantly, the novel ends with hope. Rain will never live in a happily ever after, especially after losing Galen and her mother. I do think Rain will live in a future rich with family, friends, and beautiful photography. That's my interpretation.
Rain deals with her grief by hiding, physically and emotionally. Ms. Smith skillfully uses certain literary devices, such as the camera as a symbol and the diary entries at the beginning of each chapter, to deepen the story and enhance the reader's understanding of Rain and her world.
Amidst her intense grief, Rain also deals with issues of honesty, friendship, and injustice. The supporting characters are well developed, and offer some humor for the reader, provide Rain with necessary perspective, and realistically depict a small community.
I was happy that the novel did not tie up every single plotline, but left a lot to the reader's imagination and interpretation. Most importantly, the novel ends with hope. Rain will never live in a happily ever after, especially after losing Galen and her mother. I do think Rain will live in a future rich with family, friends, and beautiful photography. That's my interpretation.