Rez Life by David Treuer examines the complexities of life on reservations in the United States, particularly focusing on the Ojibwe reservations in Minnesota, by blending history, reportage, and personal memoir. Treuer delves into issues of sovereignty rights, the impact of historical treaties, and the resilience of Indigenous tribes amidst centuries of colonization and federal neglect. Sensitive topics including crime, addiction, and historical traumas are explored.

Rez Life by David Treuer receives praise for its deeply personal and insightful depiction of Native American life, blending memoir and historical analysis. Critics commend Treuer's storytelling and ability to challenge stereotypes. However, some note the narrative's occasional uneven pacing. Overall, the book is hailed as a significant contribution to understanding Native American experiences.

Readers who appreciate the deep cultural insights and historical narratives present in Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee and The Round House will find Rez Life by David Treuer equally compelling. This book is perfect for those interested in Native American life, identity, and issues of sovereignty.

Informative / Contemplative / Melancholic / Emotional / Bittersweet

- In Rez Life, David Treuer combines memoir with reportage, offering a unique perspective as an Ojibwe writer who grew up on the Leech Lake Reservation in Minnesota.
- The book addresses contemporary Native American issues, drawing on detailed historical research and personal anecdotes to illuminate life on reservations.
- Treuer's writing in Rez Life is noted for resisting stereotypes and presenting Native American life with honesty and complexity.

**David Treuer**  
An Ojibwe author and anthropologist, son of Margaret Seelye Treuer, known for writing about reservation life. He works to document and preserve the Ojibwe language alongside his brother Anton.

**Eugene William Seelye**  
David Treuer's grandfather, a World War II veteran who spent most of his life on the Leech Lake Reservation. He is remembered for being a difficult yet sentimental man.

**Harris "Grandpa Harris" Matthews**  
David Treuer's great-grandfather from his maternal side, a Scottish man who owned bars in Bena. Known for selling alcohol to Native Americans during a time when it was illegal.

**Jesse Seelye**  
David Treuer's cousin dealing with issues of addiction and incarceration. His struggles are emblematic of some challenges faced by individuals on reservations.

**Officer Charley Grolla**  
An Ojibwe whom Treuer describes as a tribal conservation police officer at Red Lake, with deep ties to Ojibwe heritage and history.

**Sean Fahrlander**  
A member of the Mille Lacs Band and former cultural coordinator, who imparts wisdom about Indigenous history and rights, mentoring younger community members like Dustin Burnette.

**Judge Margaret Seelye Treuer**  
David Treuer's mother and a judge on the Bois Forte Reservation, who overcame a challenging upbringing to pursue a career in law.

**Dustin Burnette**  
A native of Leech Lake raised in a troubled neighborhood; he later becomes an Ojibwe language teacher, highlighting his journey through adversity.

**Charles Seelye**  
David Treuer's great-great grandfather, involved in logging businesses during his time on the Leech Lake Reservation.

**Helen and Russell Bryan**  
An Ojibwe couple whose legal case against the state of Minnesota played a significant role in establishing the legality of Indigenous-run casinos.

**Dan and Dennis Jones**  
Twin brothers who survived abuse at boarding school, they went on to teach the Ojibwe language and aid in trauma healing.

**Andrew Jackson**  
A historical figure known for implementing policies that were damaging to Indigenous peoples, particularly the forced removal of tribes.

**Captain Richard Henry Pratt**  
A figure known for his role in the establishment of the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, advocating for assimilation of Indigenous people.

**Brooke Mosay Ammann**  
An Ojibwe woman and education director unrecognized by her tribe due to blood quantum laws, illustrating challenges of tribal membership and identity.

**Carlos Montezuma**  
A Yavapai tribe member who became an activist after initially supporting assimilation, later advocating for Indigenous preservation and rights.

David Treuer

Adult

Autobiography / Memoir

Nonfiction

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Rez Life: An Indian’s Journey Through Reservation Life

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