58 pages • 1 hour read
Linda HoganPeople of the Whale
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In People of the Whale by Linda Hogan, Thomas Just, a Native American from the Pacific Northwest, returns to his village after serving in the Vietnam War, grappling with psychological wounds, cultural disconnection, and family estrangement. The narrative follows his journey of healing, cultural rediscovery, and the complex dynamics with his wife Ruth and their son Marco. The story explores themes of Indigenous cultural identity, environmental ethics, and the lasting impact of war. This book discusses trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and cultural loss.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
People of the Whale by Linda Hogan is praised for its lyrical prose and deep exploration of Native American themes, specifically cultural identity and environmental conservation. Critics commend its compelling characters and rich storytelling but some note a slow narrative pace. Overall, the novel is valued for its evocative writing and powerful thematic resonance.
Who Should Read People of the Whale?
Fans of Linda Hogan’s People of the Whale would appreciate its lyrical prose, themes of Indigenous identity, and environmental connections. Comparisons can be drawn to Louise Erdrich’s Love Medicine, Barbara Kingsolver’s The Poisonwood Bible, and Leslie Marmon Silko’s Ceremony for their similar engagement with cultural heritage and personal transformation.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsBook Details
Historical Fiction
Modern Classic Fiction
Vietnam War
Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality
Relationships: Family
Emotions/Behavior: Apathy
Animals
Military / War
Religion / Spirituality