Wandering Stars: A Novel

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Which character did you find most relatable, and why? 

2. How did you feel about the novel’s challenging subject matter—e.g., its depictions of suicidal ideation and sexual assault? Do you find reading novels like this difficult, and if so, do you find there are benefits that counterbalance the challenges?

3. Discuss how characters in the novel find strength and support in the community. Do you see parallels to this in your life? 

4. What role does storytelling play in the novel? How does storytelling help people connect with their cultural backgrounds? What is the role of stories in your life?

5. Consider the novel’s depiction of interracial adoption. Does its portrayal align with your own views on this topic?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. What does the novel suggest about the necessity of amplifying Indigenous voices in literature? How does the book challenge mainstream perceptions of Indigenous culture and history? How does the book bring to light narratives that have been misrepresented, removed, or ignored from traditional accounts of American history, such as the Sand Creek Massacre?

2. Discuss the novel’s exploration of the lingering effects of colonialism on Indigenous communities, especially with regard to cultural disconnection, land rights, and systemic inequality. What solutions, if any, does the novel propose?

3. How does the novel highlight the challenges of Indigenous experiences in urban settings?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. Analyze the book’s narrative structure, particularly the author’s use of multiple points of view. Why did the author use the second person to tell Victoria Bear Shield’s story?

2. How does the prologue set the tone for the book and introduce its thematic purpose?

3. Discuss the symbolism of names—particularly changing names—within the story.

4. Consider the novel’s title. What do stars symbolize in the story?

5. What role does religion play in the story? Does its role differ from character to character?

6. Discuss the role of dreams as a narrative device and a symbolic presence in the story.