m.s. RedCherries to Read from National Book Award Finalist ‘mother’ at Harper College
Acclaimed author m.s. RedCherries will grace Harper College on February 25 with a reading of her latest work, “mother.” This powerful debut literary piece is one of five 2024 National Book Award finalists in the poetry category. It delves into the poignant journey of a daughter reconnecting with her mother and exploring her Native American roots.
Courtesy of Harper College
About the Reading
The free reading event takes place from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Drama Lab Theatre, Building L, Room L109, at Harper College, located at 1200 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine. Communities are warmly invited to attend this inspiring literary event.
National Book Award Finalist
The National Book Award, established by the National Book Foundation, is the most prestigious literary prize in the United States. It recognizes the best American fiction, nonfiction, poetry, young people’s literature, and translated literature published annually. RedCherries’ poetry collection “mother” is part of this distinguished list for 2024.
Themes and Inspiration
“mother” intertwines poetry with reflective prose, addressing themes of identity, adoption, and the forced assimilation of Native American children in government-funded boarding schools. These elements highlight the systematic nature of this historical issue and its ongoing impact on contemporary Native American communities.
RedCherries draws from her personal experience as a Cheyenne adoptee raised by non-Native parents, which deeply influenced her writing. Her book explores the complexities of familial bonds and cultural heritage, reflecting on the emotional journey of reclaiming one’s identity.
Historical Context
The historical context of “mother” spans from the early 19th century to the 1970s, a period characterized by the U.S. government’s implementation of boarding school policies aimed at assimilating Native Americans. These schools were designed to cut off Native youth from their families, languages, and cultural practices, often through emotive and physical abuse.
Perspectives and Craft
RedCherries’ literary style masterfully blends poetry and prose, allowing the narrative to unfold through various perspectives. The intentional ambiguity of the narrator’s identity reflects the universality of the themes presented. This approach invites readers to engage deeply with the text and connect with the author’s experiences.
Harper College’s Partnership
Harper English Professor Pearl Ratunil, working with Harper’s Cultural Arts Committee, secured RedCherries’ visit. The partnership aims to highlight the importance of diverse voices in literature, offering students and the community invaluable insights into cultural and personal narratives.
Ratunil emphasizes the role of contemporary authors in nurturing creativity and expression. She believes that immersive engagements with living writers foster empathy, open-mindedness, and a deeper understanding of global and community issues.
Impact on Students
RedCherries’ work at Harper will introduce students to a contemporary perspective on Native American culture. It underscores the relevance of historical events in shaping modern lives and encourages students to explore their own identities and experiences.
“Her book brings a contemporary perspective on Native American culture,” Ratunil said. “I think Native American history is relegated to something in the ‘past’—long ago—as if we don’t have to address it now. Students reading and listening to RedCherries will hear a voice that sounds like their own voice. Her voice and perspective are from right now.”
Community Engagement
This event not only celebrates literature but also embodies the spirit of community engagement. By bringing authors like RedCherries to Harper College, the institution fosters an environment where different voices and stories are celebrated, enhancing cultural literacy and social understanding.
Conclusion
m.s. RedCherries’ reading from “mother” is a unique opportunity to delve into powerful themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage. Her work as a National Book Award finalist poet not only brings acclaim but also offers a poignant reflection on the contemporary relevance of historical injustices.
Join m.s. RedCherries at Harper College on February 25 to experience this transformative reading. Whether you’re a student, literature enthusiast, or history buff, this event promises to be a rich and enlightening experience.
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Thanks for reading!
