Crazy Brave by Joy Harjo is an autobiographical memoir tracing her life from birth to adulthood, highlighting her struggles with spirituality, and creativity while living with alcoholic and abusive men. The memoir is divided into four parts, each representing stages in Harjo's life, from her childhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, through her painful experiences with her stepfather, to finding artistic expression and escaping a cycle of abuse, ultimately discovering liberation through poetry, art, storytelling, and music. Harjo, a member of the Mvskoke (Creek) Nation, became the first Native American poet laureate of the United States in 2019. The book addresses themes including alcoholism, abuse of women, sexism, and racism.

Joy Harjo's Crazy Brave is commended for its lyrical prose and heartfelt narrative. Readers appreciate its poetic exploration of personal and cultural identity, praising Harjo's storytelling and emotional depth. However, some find its structure disjointed and challenging to follow. Overall, it's a powerful memoir that resonates deeply.

A reader who would enjoy Crazy Brave by Joy Harjo is someone who appreciates lyrical memoirs that explore personal and cultural identity. Fans of The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls and When the Light of the World Was Subdued, Our Songs Came Through edited by Harjo will find this book compelling for its poetic prose and deep reflections on heritage and resilience.

Joy Harjo

Adult

Autobiography / Memoir

Nonfiction

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Crazy Brave Summary and Study Guide

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Part 1 Crazy Brave Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2 Crazy Brave Part 2  Summary & Analysis

Part 3 Crazy Brave Part 3  Summary & Analysis

Part 4 Crazy Brave Part 4  Summary & Analysis

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Crazy Brave: A Memoir

Before You Read

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