Motorcycles And Sweetgrass Summary

Motorcycles and Sweetgrass is a novel by author and poet Archbishop Richard Smith that tells the story of a group of Sioux Indians living on a reservation in the American Midwest. It follows their struggles with poverty, racism and environmental pollution as they grapple with the rapid changes that are occurring in their lives.

The novel follows the life of Gerald Little Wolf, an Oglala Sioux Indian who lives on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. Gerald is a motorcycle mechanic, and he dreams of escaping the reservation and starting a better life for himself and his family. He finds himself caught between two worlds—his traditional culture and the rapidly changing modern world outside the reservation.

Throughout the novel, Gerald meets people from all walks of life—from white ranchers to Native American activists. He also learns about the spiritual power of sweetgrass, a sacred plant used by many tribes for ceremonial and spiritual purposes. As Gerald confronts the realities of reservation life, he discovers strength and resilience deep within himself that ultimately helps him find a way forward.

Motorcycles and Sweetgrass is an engaging and poignant story that speaks to the struggles of Indigenous communities everywhere. It’s an important reminder of how much has been lost—and what it takes to fight for something better. The novel is filled with humor, sorrow, and hope, making it a powerful and inspiring read.

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