Character and Roles
Who is the main character of the story?
Oki
What event begins the story?
Oki’s father finally brings him along on a polar bear hunt.
Name one lesson Oki learns from the adventure.
Respect for nature; humility; the idea of attempting, even when success isn't guaranteed; courage.
Where does the story take place (general environment)?
a cold, arctic or polar setting; snowy, ice, frozen tundra.
What is the capital of California?
Sacramento
Who goes with Oki on the polar bear hunt?
His father
Did Oki succeed in the hunt?
No, he does not succeed in actually catching a polar bear.
How does respect play into Oki’s experience?
He learns to respect the animal (polar bear) and maybe the environment; he sees that hunting isn’t just about taking, but understanding what he’s doing.
What is Oki’s culture / background (what kind of place / people is he from)?
It’s implied he’s from a community or family that hunts polar bears; likely indigenous / arctic-adapted, tradition of hunting; though the text doesn't give a specific tribal name. (Inference)
What is the fastest land animal?
Cheetah
What kind of relationship does Oki have with his father?
A learning / mentor relationship; father teaches and guides; Oki looks up to him and wants to prove himself. (Respectful, admiring, somewhat dependent)
What incident shows Oki’s feelings change during the story?
Something in the wild (perhaps realizing the polar bear’s power, or facing cold / danger) causes him to feel fear or respect, shifting from excitement to humility.
Describe a scene or page where the illustrations show Oki’s emotion.
For example when he faces the silence / vastness of the ice or hears the polar bear, maybe shivers, perhaps his posture or facial expression shows awe or fear. (Interpretative, based on illustrations)
Who is the illustrator of this book?
Michele Dufresne
Which bird is known for its beautiful tail feathers and colorful display?
Peacock
Which animal is central to Oki’s adventure?
A polar bear
What does Oki gain even though he does not succeed in hunting?
He gains experience, respect for nature, understanding of his own limits, pride for having tried, perhaps closeness with his father.
How do snow, light, and environment contribute to mood?
The harsh cold, vast whiteness, contrast of light/dark can evoke isolation, danger, beauty, awe; perhaps sunrise/sunset or moonlight adds solemnity.
Who came to help out Oki?
Village men
What is the largest mammal in the world?
Blue Whale