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The novel shifts between the first-person perspectives of each member of the Flores family. Consider why the author constructed the novel this way. How do the alternating points of view help reveal the complexities of the characters and their relationships? What is the significance of Augie’s sole chapter coming last?
How does Malia’s reverence for the ancient Hawaiian gods and spirits influence the other family members? What are the benefits and drawbacks of these beliefs for the family members?
What roles do drugs play in the lives of the characters? Near the end of the novel, Dean’s emergence as a successful drug dealer is included in the “Revival” section of the novel. Does Dean’s drug business represent a true revival or merely an acceptance of his degraded station in life after the demise of his basketball ambitions?
How does the author’s use of foreshadowing affect your reading of the story and understanding of the characters? Identify and analyze at least two examples of foreshadowing to support your argument.
Nature is a complex character in this story. What roles does nature play in the novel? Give specific examples.
The characters frequently talk about the need to answer callings and listen to voices. How does a shared belief in destiny motivate the characters’ actions and affect their lives? Give specific examples.
How does the family’s impoverished status influence the characters’ actions at crucial times in the story?
In addition to the Hawaiian gods, the novel also makes several references to Christianity. How does the author incorporate Christianity into the novel, and why? In particular, examine the story’s savior theme and how the ending resolves that storyline.
The clash between local Hawaiian culture and outside forces of the mainland runs throughout the story. Focusing on just one character, how does that character’s attitude toward Hawai‘i change throughout the novel?
How does Nainoa’s death affect the Flores family, both as a whole and individually? How does his death cause his parents and siblings to reevaluate their life goals and beliefs?
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