Characters
Who is David Hayden
The narrator and main character
What crime did Frank commit?
He sexually assaulted Native women
What is justice?
Doing what is morally right
Where is Montana 1948 set?
Bentrock, Montana
What does the badge represent?
Authority and power
Who is Wes Hayden?
David’s father, the sheriff
Who is Marie Little Soldier?
The Haydens' Native American maid
What is loyalty?
Staying true to someone/something
When does the story take place?
1948
What does the gun symbolize?
Violence and control
Who is Frank Hayden?
David’s uncle, a respected doctor
What happens to Frank in the basement?
He is kept prisoner by his family
Theme of silence
People hiding painful truths
What does the Hayden house show?
Their status and power in town
What do the horses represent?
Freedom and escape
Who is Julian Hayden?
Wes and Frank’s father
Why does David spy on Frank?
He suspects Frank of wrongdoing
Theme of racism
Prejudice against Native people
Describe the jail in the basement
A secret cell used for justice
Symbolism of weather changes
Mood and tension changes
Who is Gail Hayden?
David’s mother, moral and caring
What leads to Frank's death?
He takes his own life
Justice vs. family
Choosing right over family loyalty
Significance of the prairie setting
Isolation and desolation
Symbolism of the locked door
Secrets and family control