The Prairie Chicken Dance Tour

Inspired by the true story of a group of Indigenous dancers who toured Europe in the 1970s, The Prairie Chicken Dance Tour is a whirlwind misadventure that highlights stereotypes of Indigenous people, both in Canada and abroad. Though this book may be inspired by a true story, Dawn Dumont uses it to create a wild tale that, at times, feels more like the antics of a comedic play. That isn’t to say there aren’t darker themes covered, such as racism, residential schools, and struggling with one’s Indigenous identity. Excerpts could be used to connect with factual documents for historical studies, but this book is likely best engaged with as a novel study.

Awards:
Longlisted, 2022 Leacock Medal for Humour
Shortlisted, Fiction Award, 2022 Saskatchewan Book Awards
Shortlisted, Rasmussen & Co. Indigenous Peoples’ Writing Award, 2022 Saskatchewan Book Awards