The Night Watchman
"The Night Watchman" is a novel by Louise Erdrich, published in 2020. It is inspired by the life of Erdrich's grandfather, who fought against the termination of Native American tribes in the 1950s. The story is set in North Dakota and follows the struggles of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians as they navigate the challenges posed by government policies.
The narrative centers on Thomas Wazhashk, a night watchman at a local factory, and his efforts to protect his community's rights. The book explores themes of resilience, identity, and the impact of historical events on Native American lives, blending personal and political elements.