Richard Wagamese Books In Order Of Release

Richard Wagamese (1955–2017) was one of Canada’s most beloved and powerful Indigenous voices. An Ojibwe author from the Wabaseemoong Independent Nations, Wagamese wrote with raw honesty about identity, healing, addiction, residential schools, and the enduring strength of Indigenous culture. His books—fiction, memoir, poetry, and non-fiction—have touched hundreds of thousands of readers and continue to top Canadian bestseller lists years after his passing.

Whether you’re new to his work or a longtime fan wanting to read chronologically, this guide lists all of Richard Wagamese’s published books in order (both by publication date and suggested reading order), with short descriptions so you know what to expect.

List Of Richard Wagamese Books In Order by Year

Discover the complete list of Richard Wagamese books in order by year, including his celebrated novels, memoirs, and story collections. This guide helps readers explore Wagamese’s powerful storytelling journey, trace his literary evolution, and find the perfect reading order. Ideal for fans, researchers, and anyone wanting to experience his works in chronological sequence.

Official Series / Connected Books

Richard Wagamese Books in Publication Order

1. Keeper’n Me (1994) His groundbreaking debut novel. Garnet Raven, raised in white foster homes, returns to the reserve at 21 and is taken under the wing of Keeper, an elder who teaches him Ojibwe ways through stories and humor. A perfect entry point—funny, warm, and deeply moving.
2. A Quality of Light (1997) A coming-of-age story about two teenage boys—one Indigenous, one white—who form an unlikely friendship in rural Ontario during the 1950s and 60s. Explores racism, spirituality, and the possibility of reconciliation.
3. For Joshua: An Ojibway Father Teaches His Son (2002) A heartfelt letter from a father to his estranged son. Part memoir, part life lessons on surviving residential school trauma, addiction, and reclaiming culture. Short, poetic, and devastatingly beautiful.
4. Dream Wheels (2006) A multi-generational saga set on a Colorado ranch and an Alberta reserve. Rodeo cowboys, troubled teens, and traditional healers collide in a story about forgiveness and second chances.
5. Ragged Company (2008) Four homeless people in a big city—Amelia One Sky, Timber, Double Dick, and Digger—find a winning lottery ticket and a mysterious stranger who changes everything. One of Wagamese’s most beloved novels; funny, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful.
6. The Next Sure Thing (2011) A gritty novella about a blues musician and a Cree gambler caught up in fixed horse races. Shorter and darker than his usual work, but still packed with soul.
7. Indian Horse (2012) – His masterpiece Saul Indian Horse’s harrowing journey through residential school, hockey stardom, and eventual healing. Winner of countless awards, adapted into a powerful film. If you only read one Wagamese book, make it this one.
8. Him Standing (2013) A fast-paced novella about a young First Nations carver who is hired to forge West Coast Indigenous art. Explores authenticity, crime, and redemption.
9. Medicine Walk (2014) A dying, alcoholic father asks his estranged son to take him into the wilderness to die “like a warrior.” One of the most emotionally intense father-son stories you’ll ever read. Many fans rank it alongside Indian Horse.
10. Embers: One Ojibway’s Meditations (2016) Daily reflections blending Ojibwe teachings, nature, and personal wisdom. Perfect for morning or bedtime reading—short passages that feel like sitting with an elder.
11. Starlight (2018) – Published posthumously The spiritual sequel to Medicine Walk. Frank Starlight and his adopted son continue the journey of healing on the same ranch. Quiet, luminous, and deeply satisfying.
12. One Drum: Stories and Ceremonies for a Planet in Crisis (2019) – Posthumous A collection of stories, teachings, and ceremonies focused on reconnection—to land, spirit, and each other.
13. Black Bird (2021) – Posthumous novella collection Contains the previously unpublished title novella “Black Bird” plus other short works. Darker and more experimental.

Suggested Reading Orders

For new readers (recommended emotional journey):

1. Keeper’n Me (gentle, funny introduction)
2. For Joshua (short, powerful memoir)
3. Ragged Company (heartwarming ensemble)
4. Indian Horse (the big one—brace yourself)
5. Medicine Walk → Starlight (father-son duology)
6. Embers (daily meditations whenever you need them)

Chronological purists:

Just follow the publication list above!

If you only have time for three:

1. Indian Horse
2. Medicine Walk
3. Keeper’n Me

Bonus: Children’s Book

Run, Boy, Run (illustrated by Richard Van Camp, published posthumously in 2022) – A beautiful short picture book based on Wagamese’s love of running and nature.

Final Thoughts

Richard Wagamese didn’t just write books—he left medicine for a wounded world. His stories remind us that healing is possible, that culture can be reclaimed, and that every human being carries light even in the darkest times.

Start with any book on this list and you’ll understand why readers say, “Once you read Wagamese, no other author quite fills the space he leaves behind.”

Which Richard Wagamese book are you picking up first? Drop your favorite in the comments—I’d love to hear!

Happy reading, and as Wagamese would say… “Walk gently. All my relations.”