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marekcornett 's review for:

Big Chief by Jon Hickey
4.5
challenging dark emotional informative reflective sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

Whew, this book. I needed to sit with it for a minute before I wrote this review.

My worry is that the general masses, those who don’t have access to or knowledge of Native relations, sovereignty, the complexities of tribal councils, will think this is what happens with all elections. While yes, there are often unexpected interpersonal connections and dramas that unfold come election time, the author presents a circumstance that is incredibly violent—an uprising of sorts. In all my years growing up and living close to reservations and working with tribes, I’ve never once seen something like what is described in the book.

However, the story is told well. The characters are complex, and the main character is a morally grey lawyer/fixer who it’s easy to be mad at. I’d encourage you to read it, but also understand that the situation is pretty far-fetched.