Henry Moskowitz’s Reviews > Montana 1948 > Status Update

Our class theme Non Sibi, not for oneself, relates to the book. Wes could have protected Uncle Frank because he is family, but he does what is right instead. When Wes says, “I believe in this world people must pay for their crimes. It doesn't matter who you are,” it shows he cares more about justice than himself and puts doing the right thing above his family’s reputation.

What stood out to me while reading was Davie’s identity crisis. On page 120 Davie says, “Then being a Hayden would mean having an identity I didn’t want but could do nothing to disown or deny.” This connects to the real world because many people struggle with their identity. I predict that Davie will begin to understand himself better and grow.

After Marie dies, Wes arrests Frank and keeps him in their basement so he doesn’t face humiliation. What didn’t surprise me was how Grandpa Julian reacted when faced with the information. He was shocked that Wes would do that to his own brother. Julian didn’t care what Frank had done, only that Wes was the one holding him accountable. I wonder how this will affect Wes’s relationship with his family.

It shocked me to find out that Marie Little Soldier died. What didn’t shock me, though, was that Frank was involved in suspicious ways. On page 88 we find out Frank was with Marie right before she died. It wouldn’t surprise me if Frank did something to Marie to keep his secret from getting out. I think Frank did something to Marie. It will be interesting to see how Wes responds to this information Davie is sharing.

On page 81, I reconnected with how Davie views his dad’s job and his dad in general. Davie realizes his dad’s job is actually serious and not like what he sees in movies or on TV. This helps him see that the real world is tough and life isn’t a game. It also shows Davie growing up and starting to think more like an adult. I predict more events like this will shape how Davie approaches problems.

At the start of the book, Uncle Frank is described as a war hero, handsome, athletic, and admired by everyone. Ollie Young Bear is also described as a respected and beloved Native American in the community. After learning about Uncle Frank’s dark side, I wonder if Ollie Young Bear might also be hiding something. It’ll be interesting to see if they share similar flaws.

I was very shocked to learn that Uncle Frank had been sexually assaulting Indian girls. It was very shocking because he was described as a war hero and was respected by people in the town. It was also interesting seeing the emotions of Wes learning what his brother was doing. It will be interesting to see how Wes deals with this and what happens to Frank.

It stood out to me how the son feels free when away from town. He wants to grow up in the wild, enjoying horseback riding, fishing, and shooting, which shows his love for independence and adventure. His care for Marie also stood out, showing his kindness and thoughtfulness. I’m curious to see how his bond with her and his struggle with the town will develop through the story.