The Mighty Red

Research the history of the Anishinaabe people in the Red River Valley, especially the way that settler-colonialism impacted their communities. How can you see evidence of tension between white and Indigenous peoples reflected in this text?

Consider how other works by Louise Erdrich might be in dialogue with The Mighty Red? Pick one of her other texts and identify and explore common themes between it and The Mighty Red.

How does the author use suspense and foreshadowing to enhance her narrative? For example, what do the repeated cryptic mentions of the accident at the river have on the story? Why might Erdrich have chosen to structure her text in this way, instead of revealing the nature of the accident at the novel’s beginning?

Discuss Kismet’s inabilility to act decisively or speak her mind. Point to specific moments in the text to explain Kismet’s characterization and provide a window into who she is as a person.

What broader argument is this novel making about corporate farming and the dangers posed by monocrops? Consider the author’s discussion of plants like amaranth and lambsquarters—what might Erdrich be suggesting about the future of agriculture in a post-climate change world?

Research the books that Bev’s book club reads and discuss how they are in dialogue with this novel. How might their plots, themes, and use of symbolism deepen the meaning of The Mighty Red?

Consider Martin and Crystal’s decision to reconcile at the end of the novel. What do you make of this choice, especially in light of their difficult marriage and Martin’s many acts of betrayal? What broader argument might the author be making here about romantic love?

Does this novel have a true antagonist? Which of its characters can be said to act antagonistically, and what complicates straightforward readings of them as “bad actors”?