Sophia Alice Callahan's Wynema: A Child of the Forest (1891) is a work of radical social and political criticism, clearly opposing the Americanization and Christianization of Indians during the late 19th century. It is believed to be the first novel written by a woman of Native American descent and the first novel written in Oklahoma.
Wynema tells the story of a Muscogee Creek girl named Wynema Harjo and her teacher, Genevieve Weir. The novel introduces the reader to traditional American Indian customs, such as festivals, dances, rituals and food. It also covers major themes and events of the time, like the women's suffrage movement, Indian allotment and the infamous massacre at Wounded Knee.
