And she’s not alone. In fact, there are simply too many amazing Indigenous poets (North American or otherwise) to capture all on one list. I could try, and it might look something like this: Wendy Rose, Emelihter Kihleng, Leanne Betasamosake Simpson, Layli Long Soldier, Qwo-Li Driskill, Heid Erdrich, Jordan Abel, Allison Hedge Coke, Alan Pelaez Lopez, Deborah Miranda, Gerald Vizenor…the list goes on. And on. And on and on and on. I know, I know. I have to narrow it down or we’ll be here all day (and all night, too). So the names on this list are a starting point. Some of them are poets with multiple publications and honors, while others are earlier in their careers. All of them have at least one published book, but if you’re looking for even more fresh voices you might check out Indigenous Nations Poets’ 2022 cohort of Fellows. Wherever you start, I hope you enjoy the journey.
Hungry for More? Serve Yourself!
Can’t get enough Indigenous writing? Peruse this list of Native American poets or consider listening to the books on this list of recent Native American audiobooks. You might also check out this list of Indigenous memoirs or get your genre on with some works of Indigenous horror. And of course, if you’re seeking books for the littles, here are some suggestions for Indigenous authored picture books and YA books by Indigenous writers.
