Characters & Relationships
Who is the narrator of the novel?
(full name)
Lauren Olamina
Where does the story take place?
In a walled community in Robledo, California.
What is Lauren’s philosophy called?
Earthseed.
Who says this: “We’re in God’s hands”?
Lauren’s father.
Name one global issue reflected in Ch. 1–10.
Climate change / social inequality / loss of safety.
What is the name of Lauren’s father and what is his job?
Reverend Olamina, a Baptist minister and teacher
Name one sign that society outside the walls is collapsing.
Fires, robberies, poverty, lack of law enforcement.
Finish this quote: “God is _____.”
Change
What does Lauren mean by “Embrace diversity. Unite or be destroyed”?
Human survival depends on accepting differences.
How does Butler use Lauren to explore the idea of leadership?
Lauren shows that leadership means adaptability and compassion.
Why is Lauren’s relationship with her stepmother tense?
Because Cory is protective and realistic while Lauren is rebellious and questioning
Why do families keep guns inside the community?
To protect themselves from thieves and outsiders.
What does the wall symbolize?
False safety and social division
Explain the meaning of: “All that you touch You Change.”
Everything we do has impact; change is constant.
Which aspect of modern society does Butler criticize through this dystopia?
Overreliance on technology and class division.
Who is Keith, and what happens when he leaves home?
Lauren’s younger brother, he runs away and is later killed.
What is the purpose of the walls around Robledo?
To protect citizens from violence and chaos outside.
How is fire used symbolically in these chapters?
As destruction and renewal; a sign that change is coming.
What does Lauren realize about faith compared to her father’s beliefs?
Faith must adapt to change; blind faith is dangerous.
How does the novel address gender and power in Lauren’s world?
Women are vulnerable outside walls, but Lauren shows resilience.
How does Lauren differ from her father in handling danger outside the wall?
Lauren accepts change and plans for escape, her father trusts faith and community boundaries.
How does the outside world reflect themes of inequality and social decay?
It shows wealth divide, privatized security, and government failure.
What does Lauren’s hyperempathy symbolize in relation to human connection?
The pain of understanding others too deeply and society’s lack of empathy.
How does the opening epigraph from Earthseed relate to the plot?
It foreshadows transformation through suffering.
What is Butler’s main message about human adaptation and survival?
Humanity must accept change and work together to survive.