1. Each of the novels we've looked at so far features a pair of siblings, with one child having a different connection to his or her heritage than the other. Focusing on two of these books, compare and contrast the roles of the sibling relationships paying particular attention to how these relationships connect to the overall themes of the novels.

2. Many of the texts we have read so far involve a tension between the needs and/or behavior of the individual and the demands of the community. This tension is also frequently connected to an apparent disjunction between the modern and traditional way of life for Native peoples.

Choosing one of the texts we have studied in class, examine the presence of this theme, perhaps with regard to a single character or aspect of the plot. What does the text seem to suggest in the end? Can there be a balance between the needs of the individual and the community, between modernity and tradition? What is at risk if such a balance is not achieved?

3. "The truth about stories," Thomas King tells us, "is that's all that we are." Choosing one or two characters from Ravensong and/or Kiss of the Fur Queen, examine the function of stories in the character's/characters' life/lives. How do stories shape the character's/characters' behaviours? Do these stories or how they are looked at by the character(s) change over the course of the novel(s)?

ESSAY LENGTH 1500-1800 words DUE DATE: Tuesday, March 18 (no extensions)
Here's a link to an earlier posting on this blog about how to use MLA style. Even if you don't use any secondary sources, you still need to have a works cited list for your paper.