76 pages • 2 hours read
N. Scott MomadayHouse Made of Dawn
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1968A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
House Made of Dawn by N. Scott Momaday follows Abel, a young Indigenous American war veteran who, traumatized by his experiences in World War II, returns to his hometown in New Mexico. Struggling with alcohol addiction and his disconnection from his cultural roots, Abel's journey of self-discovery involves relationships, violent encounters, and eventual participation in a traditional ceremonial race that helps him reconnect with his heritage and find a sense of belonging. The novel contains sensitive topics including alcohol addiction and physical violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Reviews for N. Scott Momaday's House Made of Dawn often praise its rich prose and deep exploration of Native American culture and identity. Readers appreciate its poetic style and vivid descriptions. However, some find its nonlinear narrative and complex symbolism challenging. Despite this, many regard it as a powerful and evocative literary achievement.
Who Should Read House Made of Dawn?
A reader who would enjoy House Made of Dawn by N. Scott Momaday is likely interested in Native American culture, identity, and post-war struggles. Fans of Louise Erdrich's Love Medicine or Leslie Marmon Silko's Ceremony would find this novel compelling for its lyrical prose and deep exploration of indigenous themes.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsLexile Level
970LBook Details
Historical Fiction
Classic Fiction
American Literature
Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice
Emotions/Behavior: Apathy
Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance
Addiction / Substance Abuse
Social Justice
History: World