Great writing.
"I'm not particularly happy about gambling as a fiscal base for native people. That kind of money generally brings out the worst in folks, Native as well as non-Native. But after several centuries of economic oppression, and given the lack of alternatives, professional gaming, for many tribes, holds the most potential for the least effort. Still, apart from raw cash and jobs, industrial-strength gambling contributes little of value to the world.
But then, the same thing to be said about land mines and reality television."

The combination of rather dense legal and historical information, and satirical humour, was sometimes odd to follow. Each aspect taken separately was great, however.

I'm glad Thomas King let us know, at the outset, that this book would not be a traditional or comprehensive history text. I'm glad he let his anger show for the repeated abuses and murders committed in Canada and the US of first nations people. This book tells of a very different set of historical events from the ones we were taught in school: a history extremely sanitized and completely without regret or sorrow for the hatred and violence directed at indigenous peoples. While I was frequently upset and angry while reading this book, I actually found myself laughing out loud at King's sardonic and ironic assessments. Also, though the subject matter is not enjoyable, Thomas King's text was illuminating.

King's sharp wit slices through stereotypes and provokes philosophical thoughts.

I would say that everyone needs to read this, but I imagine many would argue otherwise. Great book, great telling, sick reality.

This was a sort of idiosyncratic history of Native Americans in the US and Canada. It’s not all-inclusive nor deeply thorough, but then, it wasn’t supposed to be. It was one person’s view of how they’ve been treated by the two governments and the issues facing them today. While the subject is a weighty one, the authors tone is more light-hearted with a strong touch of humor. It’s a good beginning for someone who wants a general overview of the history.

I learned a lot reading this book, and it is disheartening to learn about how the past keeps repeating itself and doesn’t seem to be getting any better. I appreciated how this was written about both Canada and the US. Gave an idea of how not much is better on either side of the border. I only gave this three stars, because it was a bit too much like a textbook for me - I liked his stories, and would have preferred less facts and dates, but I suppose that was the purpose of the book, wasn’t it? To provide facts? It’s just a personal preference. I will continue to seek out books on this subject matter.

This is a really REALLY important read for Canadians, especially those of us who are proud of how our country embraces culture and understanding. It is a wake-up call to how aboriginal people are treated in this great country and our neighbour to the south.

Oh, and it's appalling (that's putting it mildly). Reading this, I was absolutely shocked and profoundly embarrassed at just how unfairly native people are treated. And not just by ignorant rednecks and narrow-minded racist (although they are embarrassments also), but by governments that supposedly have good intentions but really don't do much good at all.

When it comes to the writing, it sure isn't a light read. The author's attitude and willingness to find humour in dark situations made this not so much an 'enjoyable' read, but provided a sugared coating to a bitter pill. And, like a bitter pill, it's something you don't want to take, but you know it's good for you.

Did I mention that this is an important read for Canadians?

Recommended for everyone, as this is a truthful account of history that doesn't make anyone proud. But needs to be known in order to keep from repeating it.

I love history and I love witty writing, the two main components of this book. The book also provides an overview of native history, native policy, the current condition of native peoples in North America, and lots of discussion on how best to learn from our mistakes and move forward.

This is an insightful book that encourages the reader to consider both sides of the stories we have come to believe as truth between native and non-native peoples in North America (i.e. loved the section on Captain John Smith and Pocahontas - when they supposedly met he was 27 and she was 10). Great book, highly recommend!