Happy Book Birthday to Nauetakuan, a silence for a noise by Natasha Kanapé Fontaine, translated by Howard Scott
Today, we’re thrilled to welcome the release of Nauetakuan, a silence for a noise by Natasha Kanapé Fontaine, translated by Howard Scott!
Named a Most Anticipated Spring 2024 Fiction title from 49th Shelf, Nauetakuan, a silence for a noise is a timely, riveting story of reclamation, matriarchies, and the healing power of traditional teachings that affirms how reconnecting to lineage and community can transform Indigenous futures. It is ideal for fans of Billy-Ray Belcourt, Tommy Orange, Katherena Vermette, Jordan Abel, and Terese Marie Mailhot.
In Kanapé Fontaine’s lyrical and poetic first novel, we meet Monica, a young woman studying art history in Montreal, has lost touch with her Innu roots. When an exhibition unexpectedly articulates a deep, intergenerational wound, she begins to search for stronger connections to her Indigeneity. A new friendship with Katherine, an Indigenous woman whose life is filled with culture and community, emphasizes for Monica the possibilities of turning from assimilation and toxic masculinity to something deeper and more universal.
Travelling across the continent, from Eastern Canada to Vancouver to Mexico City, Monica connects with other Indigenous artists and thinkers, learning about their traditional ways and the struggles of other Nations. Throughout these journeys, she is guided by visions of giant birds and ancestors that draw her back home to Pessamit. Reckonings with family and floods await, but amidst strange tides, she reconnects to her language, Innu-aimun, and her people.
Praise for Nauetakuan, a silence for a noise
“A love letter to residential school survivors, dedicated to their descendants.’”
—Le Devoir
“Poet, singer, actress, and Innu activist, the talented Natasha Kanapé Fontaine has written a hard-hitting first novel, which cuts through us like a lightning bolt.”
—Le Journal de Montréal
Beautifully designed by Malcolm Sutton, Nauetakuan, a silence for a noise is available now.
