NPR's Book of the Day Author of Wampanoag history discussed her children's book and erasure
Dec 10, 2024
Linda Coombs, a Wampanoag historian, discusses her children's book that tackles the impact of colonization on her tribe's history. She sheds light on the recent controversy surrounding the book's classification as fiction, which highlights ongoing challenges of historical erasure. The conversation emphasizes the importance of accurate representation and indigenous voices in literature. Coombs also addresses the historical tragedies faced by the Wampanoag, including devastating epidemics and the current climate of censorship in education.
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Book Recategorization
- Linda Coombs's history book, "Colonization and the Wampanoag Story," was recategorized as fiction in a Texas library.
- A judge overturned this decision, returning it to nonfiction.
Erasure of History
- Coombs wasn't shocked by the recategorization, citing frequent erasure of Wampanoag history.
- She was surprised by the perceived entitlement of those making the decision.
Book Content
- Coombs's book details Wampanoag history from the 15th century, focusing on the Doctrine of Discovery.
- It includes a story about a 12-year-old Wampanoag girl to depict pre-colonization life.
