Essay Questions

What does the novel teach us about the similarities between Native American spirituality and Christianity?

The main lesson to be learned from the novel when it comes to spirituality and religion is that many of the beliefs of both the Native Americans and the white man are rooted in the same principles. Where Christians have God, Native Americans have the Great Spirit. Both deities are omnipotent and almighty, both benevolent and guide their people by communicating with them. There is also a similarity between Christ and the Cherokee Phoenix; both are killed, but both rise again three days later. Although there seems to be more legends and pagan characters within the Native American spirituality, some of their beliefs are similar to the pagan beliefs of the early Christians and early white men, which are rooted in ancestral legend, but modified to incorporate the modern teachings of Christianity.

Although this is a work of fiction, the novel seems at times to be more like an historical work. Why do you think this is?

The main reason for the book's historical character and leaning is Diane Glancy's method of researching and sticking relentlessly to the history of the events she is is writing about. Glancy actually travelled along the trail herself, and so was able to write about its grueling nature and the overwhelming nature of it from a first person narrative. She also meticulously researched the way in which the Cherokee lived so that as well as the way things were done or looked, she was also able to describe how they felt, sounded and smelled. There are also very detailed maps at the beginning of each chapter which enables the reader to feel invested in the journey and to see how far they have travelled with the turn of each page.

Another aspect of the novel that lends it great authenticity is the addition of real-life characters. Reverend Bushyhead is one of these historical figures. His own lists of supplies that would be needed along the trail, of stories that he wrote for "The Cherokee Phoenix" and other documents that he left behind are all used to create a more genuine historical picture of the Trail and the people traveling along it.