I Can Make This Promise

A foil is a character who is the opposite of another character. Foils serve to illustrate certain character traits through contrast. Which characters in I Can Make This Promise are foils for each other? What does this dynamic say about them?

Indigenous culture, history, and identity are very important in this story. Do some research to learn more about the history of Suquamish and/or Duwamish people. Explore how that history connects to I Can Make This Promise.

Lisa and Edie discuss a Hollywood movie in which a white actress is cast in an Indigenous role. Why does this kind of casting choice happen in movies and TV shows, and how does it impact Indigenous Peoples? Support your answer with research on films that take this approach.

Christine Day includes many sensory details in her writing. Why are these details important to the story? What do they contribute to the reading experience, and how do they connect to Edie’s character?

Amelia and Edie ultimately stop being friends. Edie does not like Amelia’s approach to Edith’s story. Analyze Amelia’s reaction to finding Edith’s letters: How does her treatment of Edie and of Edith’s story reflect the story’s themes?

Lisa decided to keep Edie’s family history a secret from her. Do you think that this was a good choice? Why or why not? If not, what should she have done instead? Reference the text when making your argument.

Edie asks her parents why fireworks are banned in their neighborhood but not on tribal lands. Her parents just tell her that it’s “complicated.” Do research to learn more about laws and tribal lands, and use this context to answer Edie’s question. How does this question relate to the story’s themes?

Roger is a very minor character in the story. Why is he important to Edie’s journey? How is his life different from hers, and why is that difference important? Use information from the book to support your answer.