By the time

was published in 1988, Louise Erdrich had established herself as a prominent new voice in American fiction. Her first two novels,

(1984) and

(1986), received significant critical and scholarly attention, with the former being especially decorated and oft taught in classrooms. While the reception of

was more mixed, compared unfavorably to Erdrich’s earlier work by some critics, it has, in recent years, seen a revival in critical attention. As Erdrich has continued to cement her position as a major American writer, a persistent critical discussion around

speaks to its influential role in shaping the broader conversation surrounding the author’s work.

Tracks shares much in common with the two novels that preceded it, insofar as

1814 words

Citation: Perdieu, Zachary. "Tracks". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 03 November 2021 [https://www.litencyc.com/php/sworks.php?rec=true&UID=8423, accessed 13 May 2025.]

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