Monkey Beach - Eden Robinson

Monkey Beach is a captivating novel by Eden Robinson that explores themes of family, Indigenous culture, and the supernatural through the eyes of its protagonist, Lisamarie. Set in the Haisla nation of British Columbia, the story takes readers on a journey as Lisamarie grapples with the mysteries of her past and the haunting events surrounding her brother Jimmy’s disappearance. As she delves into the myths of her Indigenous heritage, Lisamarie navigates the complexities of identity, loss, and the bonds that tie her to her family and community. With a blend of realism and Indigenous mythology (I’ve heard the novel referred to as “northern gothic” ), Monkey Beach offers a poignant and immersive narrative that highlights the resilience of Indigenous voices, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in Indigenous literature set on the West Coast.

Featured in at least 16 post-secondary course classes (last updated 10 January 2025)

ISBNs of note: 9780676973228