
Leatherdale, M. (2016). #NOTYOURPRINCESS: Voices of Native American Women. Annick Press. ASIN B07F23KB13.
#NOTYOURPRINCESS: Voices of Native American Women is a powerful and thought-provoking collection of poetry and visual art that highlights the voices and experiences of Native American women. Although poetry is not my preferred genre, the pieces in this anthology deeply resonated with me, and they made me stop and think about how Native American women have been—and continue to be—treated today. This book is an important addition to any library that seeks to represent a diverse range of voices and experiences.
The collection is both eye-opening and moving, providing readers with an intimate and raw look into the lives of Native American women. The poems cover a wide range of topics, from personal struggles and resilience to cultural identity and resistance. What struck me most was how each poem conveyed the complex emotions, histories, and realities of these women, often challenging stereotypes and shining a light on their strength in the face of adversity.
While I don’t typically gravitate toward poetry, the way these pieces were written made them impossible to ignore. Each one invites reflection, urging the reader to think critically about the issues of colonialism, identity, and gender that Native American women face. It’s clear that the voices in this collection are not just telling their own stories—they are pushing for a greater recognition of their culture, history, and humanity.
One aspect of the book that I would love to experience in a different format is the artwork. I read #NOTYOURPRINCESS on my Kindle, which, while convenient, didn’t do justice to the visual art included in the book. The art and poetry work together to deepen the emotional impact of the themes explored, and I found myself wishing I could fully appreciate the artwork in print, where I could see the colors, textures, and details that would likely enhance my understanding of the poems. The synergy between the art and the poetry is crucial to the book’s message, and a physical copy would likely make that connection even stronger.
Overall, I would highly recommend #NOTYOURPRINCESS to anyone interested in literature that explores underrepresented voices. Whether you’re drawn to poetry or not, this collection offers valuable insight into the lives and struggles of Native American women. It’s a vital addition to any library that seeks to celebrate diversity and amplify marginalized voices, and I believe it’s a book that deserves a wider audience. Just be sure to consider a print version if you want to fully appreciate the artwork that accompanies the powerful poems.
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