Northwind

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2022

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Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

Chapters 5-10

Chapters 11-16

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

Discuss Gary Paulsen’s use of the Scandinavian setting and Norse mythology in the story particularly as it relates to establishing a sense of place and setting the tone. How is Leif’s story shaped by this cultural context?

Trace the presence of omens and premonitions in the narrative. Analyze how the author uses them narratively and thematically. Discuss the blood clot omen specifically. How does this omen play out in Leif’s story?

How does Leif’s life on the ships shape his character? Trace how these trials helped him later in life. How is life in the canoe different from traversing the sea on a ship?