Dawn Dumont, a celebrated Indigenous author, returns with The Prairie Chicken Dance Tour, a novel guaranteed to elicit uproarious laughter. For those unfamiliar with Dumont’s work, this book serves as the perfect introduction to one of Canada’s most brilliant and humorous writers. Prepare yourself for a side-splitting adventure across Europe with a group of unforgettable Indigenous characters in this exceptional read.
Plotting a Hilarious Course: The Prairie Chicken Dance Unfolds
The Prairie Chicken Dance Tour throws us into the chaotic world of John, a reserved 30-year-old reluctantly persuaded by his brother to revive his traditional dancing skills for a European tour. He’s joined by Edna, a devout Catholic woman whose arthritis doesn’t quite keep her off the dance floor, and her attention-grabbing niece, Desiree. Adding a touch of professional flair is Lucas Pretends Eagle, a seasoned dancer from the U.S.
Nadine, the tour organizer, faces a crisis when her planned dancers succumb to food poisoning. In a frantic move to save the tour, she assembles our unlikely protagonists. Nadine, battling her own illness, races to Europe to oversee this impromptu group and ensure the tour’s success. What follows is a whirlwind of comical mishaps – a plane hijacking, a spooky castle sleepover, brushes with the law, and even an FBI agent – making this tour an unforgettable escapade.
Humor in Cultural Collisions and Stereotypes
Dumont masterfully crafts humor from the clash of personalities and cultural expectations. Placing a diverse group of Indigenous individuals, each with their own quirks and perspectives, into a European setting primed to view them through a singular lens of “Indianness” is comedic gold. The characters are acutely aware of stereotypes, sometimes playing into them, sometimes defying them, creating a narrative that is both funny and insightful.
The novel cleverly explores European perceptions of North American Indigenous culture. As the characters navigate different countries, the reader witnesses a range of reactions, from bewilderment to fascination, highlighting the often-misunderstood realities of Indigenous identity.
Beyond Laughter: Exploring Deeper Themes
While The Prairie Chicken Dance Tour is brimming with humor, it also delves into profound themes. Dumont subtly addresses the painful legacy of residential schools – John is a survivor haunted by flashbacks of abuse and neglect. However, the book’s overarching message is one of resilience and hope, using laughter as a powerful tool for healing and moving forward.
Edna’s strong Catholic faith introduces another layer, reflecting the complex relationship between Indigenous identity and Christianity, a consequence of residential schools often underexplored. Her spirited defense of Christianity against those who condemn it for its role in historical trauma offers a nuanced perspective, showcasing the diversity of beliefs within Indigenous communities. Dumont skillfully weaves these diverse viewpoints into her characters, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of Indigenous experiences.
Final Verdict: A Must-Read Hilarious Chicken Dance Adventure
Dawn Dumont’s The Prairie Chicken Dance Tour is more than just a funny book; it’s a witty, insightful, and heartwarming exploration of culture, identity, and the power of laughter. Dumont’s ability to create nuanced characters and absurd situations makes this novel an absolute joy to read. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a truly entertaining and thought-provoking story. Prepare to be charmed and thoroughly amused by this exceptional book – it’s a dance you won’t want to miss!
