The story The Shawl by Louise Erdrich is structured into three different sections: the story told about Aanakwad and her family, the story of the 13-year-old narrator who confronts his father, and the final brief section where the narrator describes the situation in the family now. How does this story develop the theme of healing from intergenerational trauma?
In both The Shawl by Louise Erdrich and Javi, by Han Ong, young, capable characters, one 13 years old and the other 14 years old, show a maturity beyond their years. How are both of these characters similar and/or different?
In The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka, the protagonist finds himself alienated from his surroundings. Discuss the ways the main character, Gregor, in a nearly unbearable situation, reacts to what is happening around him.
In Alice Walkers Everyday Use, Mama and Dee/Wangero have different perspectives about how cultural objects, such as the quilt and the butter churn, should be used. How are their perspectives different? Which one do you agree with and why?
Joyce Carol Oates story Where Are You Going? Where Have You Been? can be read on three levels: a crime story, a modern fairy tale, and a story with biblical undertones. Discuss these three levels in the story, providing examples of its true crime, fairy tale, and biblical allusions.
