The End of Drum-Time

How does the earthquake in the opening scene of the novel foreshadow the events to come? What is the role of nature in the book? How do the various communities interact with and understand nature?

What parallels do you see between Lars Levi’s ways of preaching and spreading his beliefs, and the churches and religious practices of today?

Henrik says to Lars Levi and his family that he thought the Sámi people would be “wild...that [they] would all live in, in, dirty tents, that kind of thing. Also that they would have shamans and beat drums, go into trances...” How do Henrik’s negative assumptions about the native Sámi people mirror assumptions in our society today between groups? How do they mirror the English colonists’ views of the Native Americans?

How do Willa and Risten differ, and in what ways are they identical? What sides of Ivvár do they bring out?

Discuss the difference in reactions that Willa and Ivvár’s fathers have when Lars Levi discovers them kissing in the sauna.

The End of Drum-Time explores herd mentality. Not only are the Sámi, Finns, and Swedes pitted against each other, but the Russians are threatening to end the agreements of the Lapp Codicil, which granted the right to the Sámi to move freely across borders. How do these larger issues speak to the tensions that run through Willa’s, Ivvár’s, Risten’s, Lars Levi’s, Biettar’s, and Henrik’s communities?

What role does Old Sussu play in reminding the younger generations about their shared history?

How does The End of Drum-Time explore the differences between following your heart and following your head?

How does Willa showcase bravery? How does Risten?

How does Willa’s decision to stay with her sister speak to her character, and the person she’s become across the book? Would you have stayed?