Pushing the Bear by Diane Glancy is lauded for its poignant portrayal of the Cherokee Trail of Tears, blending historical and personal perspectives. Reviewers commend its haunting narrative and multifaceted voices. Critics, however, note that its fragmented structure can be challenging. Overall, it offers a compelling but complex exploration of cultural trauma.

A reader who appreciates Pushing the Bear by Diane Glancy is likely interested in historical fiction, Native American history, and narratives of resilience. Fans of works like Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown or Louise Erdrich's writings will find this poignant tale of the Cherokee Trail of Tears deeply engaging.

Pushing the Bear by Diane Glancy, written in 1996, follows a group of Cherokee people forced to relocate to “Indian Territory” in Oklahoma during 1838 and 1839. Told from multiple perspectives, including Cherokee members, soldiers, and reverends, it encapsulates their struggles and resilience on the Trail of Tears. The novel emphasizes community and uses traditional Cherokee legends and language.

The source text addresses themes of genocide, displacement, and cultural erasure and references sexual assault and racist ideologies against Indigenous people.

Melancholic / Challenging / Contemplative / Inspirational

Diane Glancy

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Pushing the Bear reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Pushing the Bear | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Pushing the Bear and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Pushing the Bear Summary

Background

Pushing the Bear Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-2

Pushing the Bear Chapters 1-2 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 3 Pushing the Bear Chapter 3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-5

Pushing the Bear Chapters 4-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 6 Pushing the Bear Chapter 6 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 7-8

Pushing the Bear Chapters 7-8 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Pushing the Bear Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Pushing the Bear Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Pushing the Bear Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Pushing the Bear Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Pushing the Bear Essay Topics

Pushing the Bear: A Novel of the Trail of Tears

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Pushing the Bear?

Reading Age

Book Details