Telling Animals: Animacies in Dene Narratives

Telling Animals by Jasmine Spencer explores the transformative power of animal stories, the animating effects of animal stories, and the effects of narrative revitalization through animal grammar. It combines literary, linguistic, anthropological, and philosophical theories and methods to counterbalance ethical problems inherent in Euro-Western approaches to ontology and experience, offering hope.

Format: Hardback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

In her book "Telling Animals," Jasmine Spencer takes a comparative yet deeply personal approach to the rich tapestry of Dene/Athabaskan stories, encompassing both Northern and Southern traditions. Delving into the captivating realm of animal stories, Spencer explores the profound animating effects these narratives hold, as well as the transformative power of animacies within Dene stories. Moreover, she examines the profound impact of narrative revitalization through animal grammar, shedding light on the ways in which storytelling can breathe new life into cultural traditions. At the heart of Spencer's inquiry lies the wisdom and insights shared by numerous Elders, who firmly believe that the stories they hold are alive. Drawing upon a diverse range of literary, linguistic, anthropological, and philosophical theories and methods, Spencer employs a deictic framework to meticulously analyze the stories in both their Dene languages and their English translations. Through this comprehensive approach, she unravels the intricate layers of meaning and significance embedded within these narratives.

One of the key premises of Spencer's work is the recognition that Dene stories enact narrative epistemologies that offer a distinct counterbalance to many of the ethical problems inherent within Euro-Western approaches to ontology and experience. These stories, infused with the wisdom of the Elders, revive those who listen and read, offering a glimmer of hope and renewal. They remind us of the interconnectedness of all beings and the profound insights that can be gained through the study of animal behavior and nature.

In addition to its theoretical and philosophical dimensions, "Telling Animals" is also a deeply personal exploration of Spencer's own relationship with the Dene people and their stories. Through her meticulous research and immersive experiences, Spencer weaves a rich tapestry of stories that capture the essence of Dene culture and heritage. She sheds light on the challenges faced by the Dene people, including environmental degradation, cultural displacement, and the ongoing struggle for sovereignty.

Overall, "Telling Animals" is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the power of storytelling and the cultural significance of animals. Through her comparative yet deeply personal approach, Jasmine Spencer has enriched our understanding of Dene/Athabaskan stories and their enduring relevance in contemporary society. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in indigenous cultures, storytelling, and the intersection of human and animal worlds.

Weight: 481g
Dimension: 229 x 159 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793619730