What do you make of the author’s decision to intersperse the Wolfred/LaRose narrative within the larger, more contemporary story? Do you agree with this decision? Why or why not?

Many sources argue that LaRose Iron is the main character of the novel. Do you agree with this assertion? Explain your answer using textual evidence. 

Why are the chapters named rather than numbered? How do these names correlate to one another?

What purpose do animals serve within the novel? When do they appear? Do you think they are linked to any other themes or symbols? Explain your answer using evidence from the text.

What role does gender play within the narrative and themes of the novel? Is it important to the novel? Why or why not?

1.  Why does Erdrich choose to end the novel by focusing on the interaction between Josette and Hollis? Did this authorial choice surprise you? Do you agree with it? Why or why not?

Which character do you find the most compelling? Which character do you find the least compelling? Compare and contrast these characters using evidence from the text.

What role does religion play within the novel? How does it inform the novel’s characters, themes, and symbols/motifs? Is it also informed by these aspects? If so, how?