Because class has been canceled I have decided that it would be a great idea to update my blog as compensation. The topic this time will be based on the novel entitled: Three Day Road.

My first impressions of the book were nothing short of enjoyable. Its narrative was extremely engaging and had this habit of hooking you with its relatable characters and the dire situations in which they are placed. Each encounter is heart pounding and kept you on the edge of your seat. This is not a calm, relaxing book as it is one that does not hesitate to shove in suspense and the terrors of war. I also find the way in which the novel shifts from different points of view to be rather effective as it allows readers to see development in both Xavier and Niska and to glimpse their side of the story. This also brings to this particular question that I feel needs answering:

4) What is the significance of Niska’s character in the novel?

Being the aunt of Xavier Bird, Niska serves an important and essential role within the story. From her point of view, we catch a glimpse of her thoughts and feelings towards the arrival of her niece and how much he has changed after his venturing out into a perilous battlefield. Her presence makes us wonder about Xavier’s survival within the novel and whether he is going to live towards the climax, or lose his life. We witness her describing how weak and frail he is and how she worries about him and how much he has changed. Through her point of view we are able to find out what had happened to him after the war and the affect it had on his body, his actions and his emotions. The character of Niska is also used by author Joseph Boyden to show readers the life of an aboriginal and how it was like from the perspective of this character. With this perspective readers can explore different narratives and flashbacks within the novel. Xavier for example showcases the flashbacks of what happened during his time serving in the army, the interactions he has with his comrades and the training he is subjected to such as the sniper training where he feels sickened after successfully shooting a man in the head. It also details his relationship with his friend Elijah and the adventures the two have had together. But while Xavier’s narrative perspective shows his experiences in the army and on the battlefield, Niska’s story goes back further into the past to a point where she was only a child. While many wonder whether this has anything to do with the storyline itself, it does have a huge purpose. This is because for one, the flashbacks displayed within Niska’s narrative explain to readers as to how the life of an aboriginal is like. As readers we delve into the culture of the aboriginals as well as their myths and legends such as the fearsome Windigo. It shows clearly how the aboriginal lifestyle is like from the way the hunters attack and cook their prey to other noteworthy moments. The flashbacks here also give us more of Niska’s past and also even relates her past to what Canadians have been doing to the aboriginals such as with the Indian Act. For example here is when Niska is taken away from her mother and her family members and forced to live in a residential school where punishment towards their wrongdoings was done in an extremely abusive manner.  Such an example can be seen in reality.