Book of the Week: My Place Among Them by J. Stanion

My Place Among Them follows the intertwined lives of John Iron Horse, a young Lakota boy, and Carter Heath, a white teacher, as they tackle the cultural and political conflicts surrounding Indigenous education after the Wounded Knee massacre.

Review

Cultural clash, survival.

My Place Among Them by J. Stanion captures the enduring anguish of cultural erasure and the strength of human connection in the face of historical tragedy. This book is based on the horrific accounts of Native American boarding schools, where children of color were forced to lose their identity in an effort to “civilize” them. “Kill the Indian, save the man” is a concept that brings to mind the terrible loss of culture, language, and familial ties. The intensely personal story of John Iron Horse, a survivor of the Wounded Knee massacre whose mere survival is a monument to both the brutality visited upon his people and the resilience it takes to persist, is interwoven with this historical truth in Stanion’s work.

The story shifts between John’s perspective and that of Carter Heath, a teacher who is part of the system that oppresses John’s people, yet finds himself morally conflicted. Their relationship is central to the novel, highlighting how personal bonds can bridge even the deepest divides of mistrust, fear, and misunderstanding. The novel paints a vivid and emotionally charged picture of life on the reservation, showing the harsh conditions, government exploitation, and the suffocating weight of cultural suppression. The most striking scenes for me are those that involve John’s poignant reflections on his lost heritage, especially the moments where he observes the subtle rebellion of his people — small acts of defiance that assert their identity and survival, even in a world that demands their submission. These moments are as quiet as they are powerful, reminding the reader that survival is an act of resistance.

This story is ideal for readers who appreciate historical fiction rooted in real, often untold, stories of struggle and resilience. It may not resonate as deeply with those unfamiliar with or uninterested in Indigenous history. The novel echoes the powerful storytelling style of authors like Louise Erdrich, who blend history with lyrical narratives that evoke both sadness and hope.

In My Place Among Them, J Stanion weaves a tome where the heartache of history meets the enduring human spirit, reminding us that even in the face of cultural genocide, unity and understanding can plant the seeds for healing.

Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

J. Stanion’s multi-award-winning book can be found on Goodreads and on Amazon.

Side Notes

J. Stanion is a resident of South Carolina, one of the areas impacted by Hurricane Helene, which caused significant damage and disruptions across several US states in September 2024. The hurricane led to widespread power outages and property damage, with many communities still in the recovery process.

If you or someone you know was affected, resources are available through FEMA and local agencies. You can apply for assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. For help with debris removal and other recovery services, the Crisis Cleanup Hotline is available at 1-844-965-1386. South Carolina’s Emergency Management Division also offers information and shelter resources via its hotline at 1-866-246-0133​. Here are helpful web pages:

• FEMA
• WCNC​
• American Red Cross

For those looking to assist in recovery efforts, the American Red Cross is coordinating volunteer opportunities and accepting donations to provide shelter, food, and other support to affected individuals.

About the Book of the Week Award

The book is a winner of the Book of the Week Award.

Discover our carefully chosen Book of the Week—a compelling read that offers fresh perspectives and enriches the human experience. Here, we highlight a unique book that captures the essence of storytelling, whether through gripping narratives, thought-provoking themes, or inspiring characters. Get into our selection and explore why it’s a must-read for book lovers across the globe. Don’t miss out on our picks that celebrate the power of literature to connect, uplift, and transform.

To nominate a book for the award, visit our Awards page.