Book review: The Serpents and Other Spiritual Beings: Ojibwe History Series, Vol. 2

Reviewed by Carrie MacKenzie

The Serpents and Other Spiritual Beings: Ojibwe History Series, Vol. 2 by Bomgiizhik Isaac Murdoch is a series of short stories that have been passed down from Elders. These tales illustrate the importance of the relationship between the Indigenous people and the Serpent.

Several themes are found within these teachings. One of these is the connection to nature and how nature will “put us in our place” if we lose respect and take it for granted. Another theme is the importance of returning to and bringing back Indigenous traditions and ceremonies. This serves to motivate and encourage Indigenous readers to rediscover their traditions and ceremonies. It also serves to expose non-Indigenous readers to Indigenous teachings and culture, showing that these teachings are relevant and important to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.

These themes feel both ancient and contemporary as they are connected to the past while at the same time are relevant to the world today. Elders pass these teachings on through the generations showing their importance to the past, but the fact that they are still being passed on show their continuing relevance to today’s world.

The themes also enhance the accessibility of these stories, as they are universal. Both Indigenous and non-Indigenous readers will be able to relate to these stories and learn about Ojibwe history due to how accessible these stories are. The theme of having respect for nature and our connection to the land is something that everyone can relate to and embrace.

Bomgiizhikl Isaac Murdoch uses language that is understood and used by everyone, something else that makes these teachings accessible to the reader. This, combined with the poetic feel and light tone of the stories, gives the impression that you are sitting with an Elder, listening to them impart wisdom and knowledge.

This language is also very descriptive, creating vivid pictures in the reader’s mind. This allows the reader to clearly picture what they are reading as if they were there. This is further enhanced by the fact that these stories take place in real life locations; locations familiar to many readers, deepening their connection with the stories.

This book is made further accessible by the fact that is bilingual, written in Anishinaabemowin and English. This exposes the readers to another language and allows them to connect with the language of their people.

Even though these stories are meant as a guide for the reader, by teaching important lessons, their tone is light, almost humorous. The readers often find themselves quietly chuckling as the supposedly superior human is outsmarted by the Serpent. This ensures that the reader doesn’t feel like the lessons are being forced upon them and subsequently are more open and accepting of them. However, the stories are also told with an immense amount of respect.

This is further heightened by the rhythm or flow of the stories. The rhythm is almost poetic, making the reader feel as though they are reading a collection of poems. This makes it relaxing, helping to keep the reader interested, engaged, and receptive so the reader is more open to the teachings and their messages. This collection of teachings has important insights and lessons for everyone regardless of who they are and what their background. They can serve as an introduction or reintroduction to Indigenous culture and traditions. The teachings are also relevant and important regardless of the reader’s background.

Bomgiizhik Isaac Murdoch, Serpents and Other Spiritual Beings: Ojibwe History Series, Vol.2. Chippewas of Nawash First Nation: Kegedonce Press, 2022.
ISBN: 978-1-928120-35-3