Red Thunder
by David Matheson
List Price: $24.95
Pages: 326
Format: Hardcover/Paperback
ISBN: 0964721252
Publisher: Media Weavers
In Red Thunder, David Matheson has beautifully rendered the essence of long-standing customs and teachings in his moving memoir of the Schee-tsu-umsh Indians, now called the Coeur d'Alene Tribe. Until now, these stories have been guarded secrets among his tribe, partly from fear and partly from a need to protect what they have left. Matheson feels the time is now right to share his people's history because it is a story so much of the world yearns for; it is a story of faith, courage, and togetherness.
This guide is intended to enhance your group's reading of this inspiring and enlightening story of harmony — man's harmony with the natural world, as well as his quest for peace and unity of purpose with a Higher Power.
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1. Red Thunder takes place in the early 1700s, before the Schee-tsu-umsh Tribe's widespread contact with European settlers. In what ways is Sun Boy's story a product of the time in which he lives? In what ways are his experiences timeless?
2. In many ways, Red Thunder is a spiritual journey. What are the forces that guide Sun Boy and his tribe? How does he see his place in the world?
3. Discuss the Schee-tsu-umsh's relationship to nature.
4. "They were our elders. They sacrificed so very much for us." Throughout the novel, Sun Boy shows great respect for his elders. What are some of the ways in which his family shapes his character? What lessons did you learn from Sun Boy's relationship with his elders?
5. Matheson's writing style is deceptively simple and direct and mirrors the classic form of storytelling told through oral tradition. Why do you think Matheson may have chosen to use this timeless technique to tell his story?
6. Sun Boy explains the many traditions of his people and their different purposes. In what ways could these traditions help us in today's world?
7. Matheson says, "The backdrop to the story is part of our genuine oral history." Why do you think he chose to write this history in novel form? In what way is fiction more effective than nonfiction in telling this story?
8. Red Thunder follows several generations of a family from birth to adulthood, old age, and death. How are these four cycles of life depicted in this story?
9. Discuss the numerous ways in which images of animals inform the telling of this novel.
10. Sun Boy yearns to become a respected warrior. Why is the warrior such an honored position in Schee-tsu-umsh society? What characteristics define the warrior role in this novel?
11. "The beauty of nature was more than something good to look at; more than something to get food or shelter from." What are some of the other benefits of nature that this book brings to light?
12. What role do the women play in Red Thunder? How do they shape Sun Boy's character?
13. In what ways does Matheson challenge the traditional depictions of Native Americans? Which characters do you find especially surprising?
14. The Schee-tsu-umsh tread very carefully around a woman expecting a child. "You must not yell around them, argue or tell scary or frightening stories. Never say hurtful or critical things. All this will affect the baby." Do you think this is mere superstition, or is there merit to their concerns? How so?
15. TWhen Berry Woman is beaten by her husband, Peepa takes her back home. Do you think this is an affective method for dealing with spousal abuse? How affective would this method prove to be in today's world?
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"The book has a rhythm of an Elder telling a story. It rings true and will touch the heart of anyone who reads it. This is a triumphant work, singing out in a clear voice, bringing to us a tiny flash of the red thunder."
—Ani Harrison, Tacoma Reporter
"...in this story of the tribe before white contact there are many rewards and also lessons that may be even more important today than they were 300 years ago when the story takes place...[Red Thunder] was the best book this writer has read this year, maybe even in many years.
—Brent Andrews, Coeur d'Alene Press
"This compelling story of the Schee-tsu-umsh (now known as the Coeur d'Alene) tribal people of long ago is told in simple, dynamic language reminiscent of an oral tradition. Dave Matheson's first novel is an impressive accomplishment."
—Janet Campbell Hale, author of Bloodlines: Odyssey of a Native Daughter
"Red Thunder is a story of belonging – with and to Earth, Tribe, Spirit – a belonging missing from many lives today. The awakening of this ancient sense of oneness also brings forth a forgotten yearning to believe in what has been lost but may now be reborn in each of us. David Matheson, a man who walks with agility in two worlds, Indian and Anglo, has created a dramatically powerful and culturally important work to benefit future generations."
—Christina Crawford, author of Mommie Dearest
"Reading Red Thunder took me back in space and time, to a place and an era when the Tribe was one with the vast, unspoiled area we called home. I recommend Red Thunder to all Native Americans as a book which will help them to connect with our past. I recommend it to all non-indians as a book which will help them to better understand our history, culture, and sacred traditions."
—Ernest Stensgar, Tribal Chairman, Coeur d'Alene Tribe
