The Last Report on the Miracles at Little No Horse

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Agnes DeWitt’s lifelong masquerade as Father Damien challenges conventional notions of religious authority and gender roles. How does Erdrich’s portrayal of this “sincere lie” compare to other works that explore gender disguise, such as William Shakespeare’s cross-dressing comedies or contemporary novels like Virginia Woolf’s Orlando?

2. The novel presents a complex spiritual landscape in which Catholic and Ojibwe traditions intersect. What aspects of this religious blending felt most authentic or compelling to you? Why?

3. Erdrich structures the narrative as Father Damien’s final confession to the Pope, creating multiple layers of storytelling within storytelling. How does this framing device support the novel’s exploration of truth, identity, and spiritual authority?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Agnes’s transformation from a passionate pianist into a devoted priest requires her to suppress core aspects of her identity. Have you ever felt torn between different versions of yourself? Have you ever had to sacrifice one aspect of your identity for another? How did this scenario play out?

2. The novel suggests that love often demands profound sacrifice. When it comes to relationships, what distinguishes healthy sacrifices from destructive ones?

3. Nanapush’s casual acceptance of Agnes’s choice to live as a man allays her fear of discovery. In your experience, how do different cultures frame nonbinary identities or behaviors?

4. Contrast Father Damien with Sister Leopolda. In your estimation, which character is more closely aligned with the theme of miracles? Are they both equally touched by the presence of the divine? 

5. The piano serves as Agnes’s deepest connection to her authentic self, but its presence in the church also forces her to recall her previous self and therefore threatens her disguise as Father Damien. Do you have artistic expressions or hobbies that reveal aspects of yourself that you avoid sharing in other social contexts?

6. Agnes chooses to remain as Father Damien rather than pursuing a romantic relationship with Father Gregory, prioritizing her community service over personal fulfillment. How do you balance individual desires with your commitments to others or to causes larger than yourself?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. From land allotment to boarding schools, the novel depicts the devastating impact of federal assimilation policies on Indigenous communities. How do these historical injustices continue to influence contemporary discussions about cultural preservation and Indigenous rights?

2. Agnes’s ability to wield religious authority depends entirely on her successful performance of masculinity. What does this suggest about gender and power structures in both historical and contemporary religious institutions?

3. The contrast between Catholic doctrine and the characters’ lived spiritual experiences raises questions about the validity of religious authority. How do you see these tensions playing out in modern religious communities or spiritual movements?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. Erdrich employs multiple narrative voices and time periods to relate Father Damien’s life story. How does this complex structure enhance your understanding of the characters and their interconnected histories?

2. The motif of water appears throughout the novel. How does Erdrich use water as a way to explore themes of death and rebirth?

3. Nanapush serves as both comic relief and a profound mentor, using humor, storytelling, and outright trickery to navigate many different cultural conflicts. How does he bridge the gap between traditional Ojibwe beliefs and imposed Catholic worldviews?

4. Sister Leopolda’s barbed-wire rosary transforms a symbol of faith into an instrument of murder. How does Erdrich use this object to explore the darker side of religious fanaticism?

5. How does Father Damien’s investigation of Leopolda challenge traditional notions of religious authority and canonization?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Agnes maintains detailed rules for her masculine performance, creating a literal script for her gender transformation. What instructions would you write for someone who wants to take on a completely different identity or role?

2. The novel suggests that Agnes might be the true saint, while Sister Leopolda represents false piety. How would you design a process for determining authentic spiritual achievement?

3. Father Jude’s discovery of the birth certificate listing Father Damien as Lulu’s father creates a moment of dramatic irony in which misinterpretation protects the truth. What other documents or evidence might exist in Agnes’s cabin that could reveal (or conceal) aspects of her secret life?