A review by kayleeaspen
Shell Shaker by LeAnne Howe

5.0

This was my first novel about Native American culture, and people who are looking to diversify their reading and library collections, this is great for understanding Native American literature. Howe does an excellent job of explaining Choctaw culture through her detailed descriptions. She executes her switching from past to present very well, while also clearly showing the reincarnation of kindred spirits within a family lineage. Not only does Howe center her novel around Choctaw culture, but she also centers it around the strength and leadership of women. One thing that I find very unique in Howe's writing style is that she does not specifically write for one single audience. She allows her novel to be accessibly read by fellow Native Americans, as well as people who are not included in Native culture. She invites outsiders into Choctaw culture while creating a space for those who already understand, identify with, and participate in the culture.