Blog
The Night Watchman Student Book Discussion
Vivian Bui, One Book Fellow
August 22, 2024
On August 22, 2024, One Book hosted its first event of the year: a thought-provoking student book discussion that brought together incoming and transfer students to explore complex themes surrounding identity, community, and resilience. In small groups, each led by a One Book Ambassador or Fellow, students used prepared questions to think about this year’s selection, Louise Erdrich's The Night Watchman. Students considered the experiences of Native American communities as shown in the novel, sparking engaging conversations about the power of language, cultural estrangement, and the implications of governmental policies. We tackled questions about the significance of writing for characters like Thomas, who finds meaning in both official documents and personal correspondence, emphasizing how these writings serve as a means of connection and expression. We also explored the character Patrice's critique of simplistic views on spirituality, provoking reflections on the deeper understandings of existence and identity.
The discussion was enriched by examining pivotal themes such as the community's relationship with boxing and its representation of struggle and resilience, as well as the role of the jewelry-making factory in shaping women's economic opportunities. Participants also discussed the novel's unique structure and its impact on storytelling, allowing for a multifaceted view of real-life challenges faced by Native American communities. The event highlighted the importance of literature as a lens through which to view and discuss contemporary social issues, encouraging students to engage with the material on both personal and communal levels. It also modeled a typical discussion section to prepare students for future classes. The One Book team looks forward to continuing these discussions throughout the school year.
