Characters
Who is the narrator of the story?
Lyman
What kind of car do they buy?
Red Oldsmobile convertible
What does the red convertible symbolize?
The brothers' relationship
What theme is linked to Henry’s PTSD?
The trauma of war
What war did Henry fight in?
The Vietnam War
Which brother goes to war?
Henry
Where do they go when they pick up Susie (Hitch Hiker)
Alaska
What does the river represent?
Transition, death, or emotional release
What theme is explored through the brothers’ bond?
Family/Brotherhood
What mental health issue does Henry likely suffer from after the war?
PTSD
What is Lymans main job as a teen?
Restaurant owner
What tragic event happens to the cafe that Lyman Owns?
It gets blown over in a tornado.
What might the repaired car suggest?
Attempt at restoring connection
How is Native American identity relevant in the story?
Highlights exclusion and cultural impact
What challenges did many Native American veterans face after returning from war?
Lack of support, cultural disconnection, trauma
Who becomes withdrawn after war?
Henry
Where does the final scene take place?
The River
What theme is present in the car's changing condition?
Loss and Change
How does the story reflect real struggles of Native American families in the 20th century?
Through themes of poverty, marginalization, and trauma
Who pushes the car into the river?
Lyman
What tragic event ends the story?
Henry Drowns
What symbolic action ends the story?
Lyman driving the car into the river
What theme is revealed by Henry’s death?
The cost of emotional repression
How does Louise Erdrich’s own heritage influence the story?
She draws from her Native American (Ojibwe) roots to depict authentic experiences