Just released as the debut fiction novel from accomplished professional Donovan D. Archambault, Sr., Tatanga Hoksheen: A Failed Attempt To Kill The Indian is a gripping and inspiring tale of a young boy forced into a situation meant to strip him of his identity, culture, and memories — and how his quiet resilience preserved his cultural heritage. Readers will follow the haunting, yet inspiring life of Tatanga Hoksheen, an Assiniboine boy from Fort Belknap, Montana. At just 10 years old, officials force Tatanga Hoksheen into the Pierre Indian School in South Dakota—a government institution with one goal: to "kill the Indian, save the man." Isolated, abused, and forgotten, Tatanga Hoksheen struggles to stay positive in a school that ceaselessly attempts to rob him of his culture, spirituality, and identity. Through his deafening silence to his abusers is a rock-solid resilience and an unbreakable spirit. This story is not intended to be disrespectful, but instead to be freeing for all the little Indian kids that left home as a child and returned as nothing,” author Archambault said. “This is for you.” Tatanga Hoksheen calls each of us to remember and reckon, but also to hope and heal. It’s a suitable read for junior high kids and up — and fits snug on the bookshelves of fans of There There by Tommy Orange and The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie.
About the Author: Donovan D. Archambault, Sr. is an 84-year-old Assiniboine tribal member born and raised in Fort Belknap, Montana. A Harvard Graduate School of Education alumnus, he holds a Master of Education degree. Donovan has dedicated his life to tribal wellness and governance, serving as the Director of the Tribal Health Department and later as an employee in the Tribal Planning Department. He has also served 16 years on the Tribal Council, including two years as Tribal Chairman. Tatanga Hoksheen: A Failed Attempt To Kill The Indian is not just a work of fiction; it's a reflection of his own experiences and a tribute to his community.
