Northwind

Trace the presence of omens and premonitions in the narrative. Analyze how the author uses them narratively and thematically. Discuss the blood clot omen specifically. How does this omen play out in Leif’s story?

How does Leif’s life on the ships shape his character? Trace how these trials helped him later in life. How is life in the canoe different from traversing the sea on a ship?

Discuss the author’s description of the ghost ship’s arrival at the fish camp, particularly his use of imagery and sensory details. How do the men’s cultural beliefs shape how they view the sickness?

How does Paulsen balance a more modern, deterministic view of nature with the mystical, more Romantic, Norse view of nature?

Why does Little Carl make such an impression on Leif? Re-read the chant song that Leif writes for him at the cairn and discuss why Leif chooses to remember Little Carl this way.

List all of Leif’s animal encounters and discuss how each teaches and changes him. What does he learn from the birds, bears, whales, and dolphins?

Analyze Leif’s compulsion to write down his story. What is the significance of this urge in his life? More broadly, what is its significance in the wider story of humanity? What compels people to tell their story, and how is storytelling important for cultures and future generations?

Much of the story takes place on and in water. Discuss water as a symbol in the narrative. What role does it play both physically and spiritually for Leif as he makes his journey?