The Plague of Doves

by: Louise Erdrich

Published by: HarperCollins (April 29 release)

Reviewed by Andrea Sisco

I’ve devoured every one of the 13 books published by Louise Erdrich over the years. It’s been almost three years since her last book, and The Plague of Doves is worth the wait.

The Plague of Doves takes place in and around the white town of Pluto, North Dakota, and moves back and forward in time. The closeness of Pluto to the Ojibwe reservation has, over the years, led to intermarriage and a complicated history between the whites and the Ojibwe.

Stories are a big part of Mooshum’s life and one day he tells his grandchildren about an event that occurred in 1911. Four Indians were accused of brutally murdering a white family (only the infant daughter survived). A vigilante group rounded up the Indians, including Mooshum. Three of the Indians were hanged. Mooshum was the only person that survived. Despite the hangings, the murders have remained unsolved.

Over the years, the families of the posse and the Indians who were hanged become intertwined–and it is that history that we hear in The Plague of Doves. The primary narrator is Evelina, Mooshum’s granddaughter.

As the story proceeds, Erdrich gives us bits of information and a spectacular read where ultimately the identity of the killer is revealed.

The Plague of Doves is rich and complex. The plot is multi-layered and thus difficult to explain without revealing important plots points. My suggestion is that this is one of those books that must be read to be appreciated.

The Plague of Doves spans many years and in less capable hands would fall flat. But Erdrich is adept in managing all the information, tucking in the loose threads and weaving a story that is stunning in its exploration of history and how each person’s individual history impacts and shapes the future.

Armchair Interviews says: A must read.