Thunder Rolling in the Mountains

The Nez Perce’s relationship with the natural environment is multifaceted. How does nature act as both a sanctuary and a challenge for the tribe? Consider these points as you reflect on the text to answer the question:

• How do the characters harness the natural environment to sustain their way of life?
• How does nature pose obstacles to their journey or survival?
• How is the tribe’s understanding of nature different from that of the white settlers or soldiers?
• How do characters express reverence or respect for the land and its creatures?
• How does nature connect to the theme of Connection to Home?

Teaching Suggestion: To help students contrast the Nez Perce’s understanding and relationship with nature to that of the white settlers or soldiers, you may wish to have them draw Venn diagrams to show similarities and differences, and discuss the underlying values or beliefs that might influence these different relationships with nature. To make it more relevant for students, you might ask them to reflect on how they personally view and connect with nature. To bring the novel’s themes into a modern context, you could also discuss current events or issues related to Indigenous peoples’ relationship with their lands.