37 pages 1 hour read

Lori Arviso Alvord, Elizabeth Cohen Van Pelt

The Scalpel and the Silver Bear: The First Navajo Woman Surgeon Combines Western Medicine and Traditional Healing

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1999

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Essay Topics

1.

Throughout the book, Lori emphasizes that modern medicine is in a crisis. What evidence does Lori present for this position? Do you find her argument convincing? Why or why not?

2.

Lori grew up in a bi-cultural home. How did this experience shape her worldview, particularly as it relates to medicine?

3.

Why is the title of the text The Scalpel and the Silver Bear? Provide evidence from the text to support your argument.