Crow Mary: A Novel

Crow Mary is one of those rare novels that completely immerses you in another life. I found myself eagerly looking forward to jumping back into the story each time I stepped away. It offers an intimate and powerful look into the life of Goes First — Crow Mary — as she navigates love, identity, and survival across two worlds. Crow Mary’s journey is full of emotion. I felt her joy in motherhood, her pride in her husband, and her heartbreak and disappointment as alcohol slowly pulled him away from their family. I shared her anger toward those who demanded that Native people abandon their identity and traditions, and her fierce determination to raise her children knowing exactly who they came from. This book doesn’t shy away from the painful truths of our country’s history — forced assimilation, stolen lands, broken promises — and how deeply those injustices scarred Native communities. Through Crow Mary's story, we are reminded not only of that history but also of the strength and resilience of the Crow people. By the final pages, we witness a woman who refuses to be erased — a warrior who fights for justice, for her heritage, and for the family she loves. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn her story, and it’s one that will stay with me for a long time.

Nice read of a crow women's life.

Liked many parts and learned a lot but did not like the drinking

I liked the story and how it provided a perspective between indigenous people and early american ways of thinking.

I admire and enjoy Kathleen Grissom’s style of writing. As a reader, I feel transported directly into the scene I am reading. Crow Mary evoked so many emotions within me. Crow Mary inspires me to be brave, confident, and a reminder to stay true to myself. Crow Mary’s adventure will give courage to all women readers!
“Ahoo” Kathleen Grissom, and I await your next masterpiece!