The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven

In the short story “Imagining the Reservation,” the narrator says, “Survival = Anger x Imagination. Imagination is the only weapon on the reservation” (150). Consider this equation. How is it presented in other stories throughout the book? What stories and characters best demonstrate that imagination is a weapon necessary for survival? What role does anger play in this book? Consider what Alexie might mean when he refers to survival.

Teaching Suggestion: It may be helpful to remind students to ground their thoughts in specific passages from the text. Consider asking guiding and probing questions to help students understand the questions above.

Differentiation Suggestion: For visual learners who could benefit from support in organizing their ideas, consider providing students with a graphic organizer that breaks down each guiding question with space to brainstorm individual thoughts and take notes during the discussion. For students who may struggle with speaking aloud among peers, consider having students do an independent reflection followed by a think-pair-share before engaging in a full-class discussion to allow for participation in a lower-stakes environment.