Finding His Roots
Anton Treuer longed to escape the confines of the place he grew up in, but inevitably, the pull of his roots brought him back. His life journey is a testament to the profound impact of culture and heritage. ‘I should not know my Native American culture or language. But I am alive. I live my culture. I speak and dream in Ojibwe,’ Anton recounts, reflecting on his deep connection to his origins.
Legacy of Survival
Anton’s story is deeply intertwined with his family’s resilience. His grandmother, Luella Seelye, endured the harrowing experience of being taken away from her parents on the Leech Lake Reservation and sent to a boarding school where speaking Ojibwe was forbidden. Despite such adversities, Luella returned to Leech Lake, raised a family, and kept the cultural flame alive. Anton’s mother, Margaret, exemplified this resilience by becoming Minnesota’s first female Native attorney.
A Return Home
Anton’s journey took a pivotal turn when he was accepted into Princeton University. Initially overwhelmed by the environment, he managed to graduate and made a surprising decision: he returned home. This decision marked a significant change in his life as he fully embraced his cultural heritage. Living with tribal elder Archie Mosay enriched his understanding and fluency in Ojibwe, further solidifying his commitment to his community.
Where Wolves Don’t Die
‘Where Wolves Don’t Die’ is more than just a novel; it is a reflection of Anton Treuer’s vision to redefine Native fiction. The story follows Ezra Cloud, a 15-year-old Ojibwe boy, on a journey of self-discovery amidst the Canadian wilderness. Through Ezra’s experiences, Anton portrays a vibrant and living culture, countering the usual narratives centered only on trauma. The book is a mix of thriller and coming-of-age tale, celebrating cultural resilience, healing, humor, and the power of forgiveness.
With ‘Where Wolves Don’t Die’, Anton Treuer has crafted a story that is not just about the struggles but also the beauty and strength of the Native American experience, making it his most cherished work to date.
