Book Review: Oracles

Reviewed By: Shirley - RAM

Oracles     Amazon US HC Amazon Canada HC
Melissa Tantaquidgeon Zobel
Class/Genre:   Science Fiction   Native American

This is a charming small book that begins with a creation story, delightfully illustrated. Just a bit into the future, the last Indian casino has failed. The old ways are not valued as many people including some Indians are seduced by New Age ideas. A group calling themselves New Light Corporation has sent up a spiritual space station and want to populate it with people they name Oracles. They offer a mishmash of religions true to none.

A battle ensues between Native Americans Ashneon and her cousin Obed contrasting the old Medicine ways with the New Age melting pot. Can technology and nature coexist? Throw in a leprechaun to represent Irish ancestry. The story at times may be a bit difficult to follow, sometimes clear, sometimes enigmatic. Notes in the back explain the derivation of some names. More emphasis is put on Indian ways than futuristic settings here. If you enjoy reading about native Americans you may enjoy this.

Shirley - RAM

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Shirley - RAM