Keeper'n Me

By: Richard Wagamese

Narrated by: Deneh'Cho Thompson, Sam Bob

When Garnet Raven was three years old, he was taken from his home on an Ojibway Indian reserve and placed in a series of foster homes. Having reached his mid-teens, he escapes at the first available opportunity, only to find himself cast adrift on the streets of the big city.

Having skirted the urban underbelly once too often by age 20, he finds himself thrown in jail. While there, he gets a surprise letter from his long-forgotten native family.

The sudden communication from his past spurs him to return to the reserve following his release from jail. Deciding to stay awhile, his life is changed completely as he comes to discover his sense of place, and of self. While on the reserve, Garnet is initiated into the ways of the Ojibway--both ancient and modern--by Keeper, a friend of his grandfather, and last fount of history about his people's ways.

By turns funny, poignant and mystical, Keeper'n Me reflects a positive view of Native life and philosophy--as well as casting fresh light on the redemptive power of one's community and traditions.

Critic reviews

"A fascinating read...I loved the revelations of a child taken away from the love of his family and put out to where his spirit was lost...Wagamese's book is about healing the lost soul"
-Tantoo Cardinal

An important story for everyone

I liked this entire book and all of the author's books I've read so far. I recommend this book to anyone who questions white america's culture and overall direction. We seem to take our freedom and technology for granted, but are wholly unaware of the cost in native, african, aboriginal and even our own lives. This story is awe inspiring- despite the incredible sadness, it is uplifting and hopeful.

A must read!

I love this book and will definitely read again. His dedication and open heartness to find out more and more about his people and who he is as a hole was emotionally amazing. Very touching. I would have liked to know if he ever talked to his friend and Family from the past again ever.

Great book!

Well done story and it was great how the story integrated Ojibway teachings. Highly recommend this book!

If I could read only one book in my lifetime this would be it.

Ok, maybe it’s because I am Anishinaabe, but I think it’s more. This small book is like the Operator’s Manual on how to be a good being. This great read is wrapped in wisdom, humor and humility.
I sent Waganese’s book Embers to my friends. Now, I need to add this one to my list.
I’m getting ready to play it again. I want the many teachings to be the “fire” that warms my spirit.