The Cold Millions

The Cold Millions is told primarily from the perspective of Rye Dolan, but it also features several interludes from secondary and tertiary characters. How do these interludes shape your interpretation of Rye’s story and perspective and/or the themes of the novel?

The character of Elizabeth Gurley Flynn is based on the real-life historical figure of the same name. Compare and contrast the historical Gurley with the fictional one, and use Gurley’s role in the novel to discuss the effects of taking creative liberties in historical fiction.

The Spokane Free Speech Riots of 1909-10 marked a milestone victory for the Industrial Workers in the World, which was still in its infancy. Discuss contemporary labor movements by identifying one from the last five years and exploring its recent achievements. What has changed since the early 20th century? What has stayed the same? What insights does The Cold Millions offer on the current state of the labor movement?