Both nature and spirituality play a strong role in the novel. How do the characters in the novel display characteristics of those spiritually connected to one another and other realms? What is the significance of Isaac’s connection to the spirit realm, and how does his attachment play a role in the novel? How is nature linked to supernatural abilities for the Choctaw people? What does this attachment reveal about the beliefs of the Choctaws?

Teaching Suggestion: It may be difficult for some students to grasp this assignment because the novel has many connections to nature and spirituality. Consider first allowing students to brainstorm a list of instances in which nature or spirituality play a significant role, then ask students to explain the significance of each item they listed. Students may benefit from using the list while discussing their role in the novel.

Differentiation Suggestion: Students with attentional and executive functioning challenges may benefit from narrowing the topic of their discussion. Consider limiting student analysis to spirituality elements and why those elements are significant to the novel’s plot.