Through the Arc of the Rain Forest

Utilizing at least three examples from the text, explain how the novel creates a heightened, fantastic world. How do these fantastic elements in the story help Yamashita develop her themes?

Pick your favorite character from the novel. Then, analyze and explain what happens to this character throughout the story. What does the character learn, or fail to learn, and what message can we derive from their character arc?

Compare and contrast Mané Pena and Chico Paco. Throughout the story, do their views on faith and spirituality change, or remain the same? What lessons do Mané and Chico learn that readers today can still benefit from?

Do you think J.B. Tweep is the main villain of the story? What redeeming qualities, if any, does he possess? Does his character arc end with him finding redemption, or is justice finally served? Use direct examples to support your claims.

What does J.B. Tweep want to accomplish for the GGG company when he travels to Brazil? What results from his accomplishments, and what message does this impart to the reader?

Pick one of your favorite animals. Like the birds in the novel, what part of your selected animal might be turned into a product for humans? What would be the ecological consequences if your selected animal were to go extinct? Cite at least three outside sources in your essay.

Analyze the structure of the novel. Does cutting between different characters in different locations strengthen the pacing and create tension, or does it become distracting and confusing? Cite scene breaks and chapter beginnings and endings in your analysis.

Through the Arc of the Rain Forest was originally published in 1990. Did you find the issues addressed in the novel feel dated, or relevant to the problems we face today?