"While the Locust Slept" is a memoir by Peter Razor, a Native American man who grew up in poverty on the White Earth Indian Reservation in northern Minnesota. The book, first published in 1997, traces Razor's difficult childhood and adolescence, which were marked by abuse, neglect, and addiction. Despite these challenges, Razor managed to graduate from high school and eventually become a successful businessman and community leader. Along the way, he also became involved in traditional Native American practices and sought to reconnect with his cultural heritage. The memoir explores themes of resilience, identity, and the impact of poverty and trauma on individuals and communities. It has been praised for its candid and poignant portrayal of Razor's experiences, as well as its insights into the complexities of Native American life and history.