64 pages • 2 hours read
The impact of large-scale economic forces and government policy on working- and middle-class individuals, particularly those in small communities, plays a key role in the novel. Although the novel contains a wayward love story, it also subtly engages with the financial crisis of 2008-2009. The characters in the small, isolated town are nonetheless subject to powerful economic forces beyond their control, with the novel focusing on the history of labor relations in the Red River Valley, the events of 2008, and US agricultural policy.
In the early chapters of the novel, Crystal and other characters listen to talk of a looming financial crisis on the radio. She hears reports of “massive bank failures and dismal Christmas retail” (39). Initially, the crash seems far off, a massive event that might not affect life in Tabor. However, Crystal soon feels the ripple effect of the crash. The town is already economically depressed, with much of its wealth concentrated in the hands of families like the Geists. Crystal, along with many other Indigenous workers and migrants from Latin America, have few economic opportunities and struggle to make ends meet. As the crash’s impact is felt, the town sinks further into recession. Crystal observes that shopping at “thrifty life was less embarrassing after 2008, it was just where people shopped” (119).
Plus, gain access to 8,550+ more expert-written Study Guides.
Including features:
By Louise Erdrich
Books on Justice & Injustice
View Collection
Books that Feature the Theme of...
View Collection
Colonialism & Postcolonialism
View Collection
Coming-of-Age Journeys
View Collection
Community
View Collection
Earth Day
View Collection
Fear
View Collection
Forgiveness
View Collection
Grief
View Collection
Indigenous People's Literature
View Collection
Marriage
View Collection
Memory
View Collection
Mortality & Death
View Collection
Mothers
View Collection
Pride Month Reads
View Collection
Pride & Shame
View Collection
Valentine's Day Reads: The Theme of Love
View Collection