Picture a storyteller who weaves humor and heart into tales that challenge how we see the world—meet Thomas King! A Canadian-American author of Cherokee, Greek, and German descent, King has become a leading voice in Indigenous literature. His novels, like Green Grass, Running Water, and non-fiction, such as The Inconvenient Indian, blend wit with sharp social commentary, shining a light on the lives and histories of First Nations and Native American peoples.
With a knack for turning stereotypes on their head, King’s work is both entertaining and thought-provoking. From his academic roots to his radio performances, he’s a master of storytelling in all its forms. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this literary trailblazer!
The Making of Thomas King
Born on April 24, 1943, in Roseville, California, Thomas King grew up in a world shaped by his diverse heritage. Raised primarily by his Greek mother after his Cherokee father left early on, King’s early life was a blend of cultures. After flunking out of Sacramento State University, he took a colorful path—working as a craps dealer, bank teller, and even a photojournalist in New Zealand and Australia. His love for stories took root during these years, inspired by Native authors like N. Scott Momaday. King later earned a PhD in English from the University of Utah, focusing on Native oral traditions, which would define his career.
Moving to Canada in 1980, King taught Native Studies at the University of Lethbridge and later became a professor at the University of Guelph. His academic work fueled his writing, blending scholarly insight with a storyteller’s flair. This mix of worlds set the stage for his literary rise.
Thomas King’s Unforgettable Stories
King’s writing is a vibrant tapestry of humor, myth, and social critique. His debut novel, Medicine River (1990), follows a Native photographer navigating life on a reserve with a gentle, humorous touch. It was a critical hit, later adapted into a CBC film. Green Grass, Running Water (1993) is perhaps his masterpiece—a dazzling blend of Native mythology, pop culture, and satire that reimagines creation stories and colonial history. It earned a Governor General’s Award nomination and a spot on Canada Reads in 2004.
King’s non-fiction shines just as brightly. The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America (2012) is a witty yet unflinching look at Indigenous history, winning the RBC Taylor Prize and inspiring a 2020 film. His children’s books, like A Coyote Columbus Story (1992), use the trickster Coyote to subvert historical narratives with playful brilliance. Whether writing novels, short stories, or radio scripts for CBC’s Dead Dog Café Comedy Hour, King’s style is conversational, subversive, and deeply rooted in oral traditions.
His characters—like Louise Heavyman, the single-mom accountant in Medicine River—defy stereotypes, offering nuanced portraits of Indigenous life. King’s humor doesn’t shy away from tough topics like colonization or racism but invites readers to laugh, think, and question.
Why Thomas King Matters
Thomas King’s impact on Indigenous literature is profound. As one of the first Indigenous authors to deliver the CBC Massey Lectures in 2003, he brought Native stories to mainstream audiences. His work challenges colonial narratives, celebrates resilience, and amplifies Indigenous voices. Books like The Inconvenient Indian have educated readers on historical injustices while inspiring new generations of writers. King’s activism, including his 2007 NDP candidacy, underscores his commitment to change.
His legacy is also personal. Through teaching, broadcasting, and writing, King has shown that stories can heal, provoke, and unite. In 2020, he was named a Companion of the Order of Canada for his contributions to Indigenous culture, cementing his place as a literary icon.
About Thomas King
- Born: April 24, 1943, in Roseville, California
- Key Works: Green Grass, Running Water, The Inconvenient Indian, Medicine River
- Awards: RBC Taylor Prize (2014), Governor General’s Award for Fiction (2014), Stephen Leacock Medal for Humour (2021)
- Fun Fact: King starred in CBC’s Dead Dog Café Comedy Hour, playing a comedic version of himself!
Snag Green Grass, Running Water or The Inconvenient Indian and dive into Thomas King’s brilliant blend of humor and truth. Your bookshelf will thank you!