sambolin 's review for:

Stolen by Ann-Helén Laestadius

4.0

dark informative mysterious reflective sad tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Plot

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: No

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So I did borrow this book from Libby thinking it was  non-fiction, so the mystery thriller did sneak up on me! This was a super interesting plot that was intertwined flawlessly with the point of view of what life is like as an indigenous person- from the overt racism, fear for life and livelihood, lack of voice in a broader community, and connection to the earth and environment. I felt for Elsa the entirety of the book- the whole Sámi community. The cruelty and lack of respect was sickening- and so much proof that racism and otherism is not contingent on skin color nor relegated to melting pot cities and countries. While I know it was telling the very real story of the Sámi people, it felt so realistic to America’s native population- from rumors of taking advantage of systems, lack of police protection, pointed misunderstanding of culture, forced boarding schools, and concern for with the future and global warming. The plot was interesting but the true hook for this story was being able to empathize with an oft dismissed people.