71 pages • 2 hours read
Eden RobinsonMonkey Beach
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014A 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
Monkey Beach by Eden Robinson is set in the Haisla village of Kitamaat, British Columbia, and follows teenager Lisa Hill as she grapples with the mysterious disappearance of her brother, Jimmy. Through a blend of memories, Lisa explores her supernatural abilities and her strained relationships, especially with her family. The narrative interweaves past and present, moving from childhood reflections to Lisa's determination to uncover the truth about Jimmy's fate. The book contains sensitive themes including sexual assault and death.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Eden Robinson's Monkey Beach is praised for its vivid depiction of Haisla culture, intertwining supernatural elements with raw, emotional storytelling. Critics commend the protagonist's complex characterization and the rich, atmospheric setting. Some note the narrative can feel disjointed, but overall, it offers a compelling, intricate read that resonates deeply.
Who Should Read Monkey Beach?
Fans of Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko and The Round House by Louise Erdrich will appreciate Monkey Beach by Eden Robinson. This novel blends Indigenous culture, supernatural elements, and mystery, making it ideal for readers interested in contemporary Indigenous literature and coming-of-age stories with a mystical twist.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsBook Details
Mystery / Crime Fiction
American Literature
Trauma / Abuse / Violence
Diversity
Religion / Spirituality
Emotions/Behavior: Grief
Emotions/Behavior: Memory
Society: Community