![]() ![]() In the classroom I think there could be many different ways one could handle “Monkey Beach.” There is an opportunity, in studying this book, to not only take a look at the First Nations culture but also have the students look at their own. This can also be said about the supernatural in the book. When discussing berries, Lisa’s grandmother explains that certain berries should only be eaten carefully and by someone who knows how to handle them. This mythology takes on a darker and dangerous tone, in most cases, because Lisa doesn’t know how to control her gifts. There is no one left to guide Lisa and the rest of the young adults in the Haisla culture. These elements tie her to a culture that is slowly being lost. Like Lisa herself, we never fully understand the implications of what is happening with her and how she can use her gifts. ![]() Also, most of the supernatural elements are never completely explained. He makes them completely relevant to the story and the situation that Lisa finds herself in. Robinson weaves elements of the Haisla culture into the book without overwhelming the reader. ![]() I really enjoyed Eden Robinson’s novel, “Monkey Beach.” Something I particular appreciated was how Robinson seamlessly integrated First Nations mythology and supernatural elements into the text. ![]()
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