Native Life Through the Lens of Books, Films & Podcasts

Published March 11, 2025    By Helen Oliff

In the vibrant tapestry of Native Life, Indigenous books, films and podcasts offer unique insights – all helpful tools to PWNA. Why? Because we believe in the transformative power of education and engagement to foster a deeper understanding of other cultures. And with the resurgence of authentic Indigenous narratives in multimedia, it’s a good time to immerse yourself in Native heritage.

Native Books

One vehicle for understanding other experiences and perspectives is literature. For example, here are some compelling reads that paint a vivid picture of Native life, history and resilience:

• 5 Little Indians by Michelle Good: Follows five Indigenous children who attended the same boarding school and looked to rebuild their lives in Vancouver after trauma/abuse
• The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee by David Truer: A counter-narrative of Native life from the Wounded Knee massacre to the present
• Blood Sisters by Vanessa Lillie: Follows a BIA Cherokee archeologist summoned to rural Oklahoma to investigate the disappearance of two women
• There There by Tommy Orange: Explores the themes of Native people living in urban spaces and other struggles with identity and authenticity

Native Films

Another powerful medium that brings stories to life is film. Check out these film selections that portray historical events and modern-day stories of Native Americans:

• Sugarcane (2024): Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie documentary investigating the legacy and devastating impact of Canadian boarding schools
• Under the Bridge (2024): A cop and writer investigate the 1997 murder of a young girl in Canada, based on Rebecca Godfrey’s book
• Killers of the Flower Moon (2023): Set in 1920s Oklahoma, a romance-western-mystery exploring the bloody history of the Osage murders
• Native America (2023 PBS series): A groundbreaking portrait of contemporary Indian Country that smashes stereotypes and reveals the culture and knowledge of Native peoples

Native Podcasts

Finally, podcasts have emerged as a newer medium. As a popular entertainment option with informative content, you can equip yourself with diverse perspectives through podcasts like:

• This Land, hosted by Rebecca Nagle: Award-winning documentary podcast reporting on the far right and the impact of advancing a conservative agenda on Native Americans
• The Red Nation Podcast, hosted by Nick Estes & Jen Marley: Features discussions on Indigenous history, politics and culture from a left perspective
• Media Indigena, hosted by Rick Harp: A weekly roundtable about Indigenous issues and events in Canada and beyond

Plus, there are other ways to immerse yourself in Native life and culture that go beyond books, films and podcasts. Two simple ways are attending powwows or practicing Buy Native. Indeed, powwows immerse you in storytelling, craftsmanship, dance, and music in a vibrant communal gathering. Meanwhile, choosing to #BuyNative helps preserve traditional skills, whether for art, jewelry, clothing or other supplies. What’s more, both can help boost Indigenous income.