44 pages • 1 hour read
Louise ErdrichThe Game of Silence
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2005A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In The Game of Silence by Louise Erdrich, nine-year-old Omakayas and her Ojibwe family face increasing hardship as white settlers displace nearby tribes, pushing them to seek refuge on their island. As the family tries to help, Omakayas matures through various challenges, eventually embarking on a spiritual journey, discovering her spirit animal, and having visions foretelling her people's forced displacement but also their resilience.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Louise Erdrich's The Game of Silence is celebrated for its rich characterization and vivid depiction of Ojibwe culture, engaging readers with a blend of historical depth and emotional storytelling. While praised for its lyrical prose and authentic voice, some critics find the pacing occasionally slow. Overall, it offers a compelling, culturally immersive experience.
Who Should Read The Game of Silence?
Readers who enjoy Louise Erdrich’s The Game of Silence are often fans of historical fiction and Native American literature. Similar to the audience of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House series, they appreciate richly detailed narratives about indigenous life, culture, and traditions.
RecommendedReading Age
10-14yearsLexile Level
900L