The Courage to Exist in Daylight: A Novel, Native American Stories

by Tricia Renée Kucinski

A powerful, voice-driven story about overcoming grief, complex mother/daughter relationships, Native American issues, and modern mixed-race identity issues. Mary-Claire is born a “half-breed” to a white father and Native American mother. As a young adult preparing for days-long burial ceremonies for her mother, she reflects on her identity issues growing up on the Rez, her volatile home life below the poverty line, how her mother’s addiction escalated, and how to break the cycle.

286 pages, Paperback

Published February 16, 2023

Reviews

[Clara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tricia writes a beautiful yet haunting story of the struggles and joys of growing up on the Rez, adjusting to life outside of it, and handling complex emotional issues with the main characters family members. She truly has a way with words and evokes so much emotion in her writing. I cannot wait for her next book!

[Natalia Polomarkakis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I purchased this beautiful book at the Powwow held at ETHS this fall. The colors of the cover caught my attention and Tricia signed my copy. The Courage To Exist in Daylight was a beautiful read and transported me to Wyoming. Tricia’s childhood experiences and joys were written so vividly. I really enjoyed the journey this book took me on and I look forward to ready more of her work.