Reader with a Cause discussion

One of the many things that we think Louise Erdrich did quite compellingly in this book was to illustrate both the immediate and long-term consequences and effects of a traumatic assault. Geraldine’s recovery and survival was complex and affected each member of her immediate family, her workplace, and her extended network of family and friends.

What did you think of this depiction? In particular, the effect that it had on Joe?

I liked the depiction, I don't think it was overly done or candy coated. I liked the fact the thing that saved her was her personal sense of work undone. Although it was nice to have a loving husband depicted and a son full of hatred and anger toward the attacker. What eventually saved her from the downward spiral of anguish was that she still had purpose. Her survival, her sanity could hold the key to survival of another. That's when she began to survive. Survival comes from within -despite the attacker being found or not, a loving man or not. Realize your purpose and put it into effect. I like that message