Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of gender discrimination and racism.

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Why do you think this novel beat so many other titles for the Pulitzer Prize in 1985? What sets it apart from other genre fiction? How does it compare to other classic Westerns—e.g., Charles Portis’s True Grit or Cormac McCarthy’s All the Pretty Horses?

2. Many elements of the narrative are dated, particularly its treatment of women and people of color. How did this affect your reading of the novel?

3. Have you read any of Larry McMurtry’s other works—e.g., Horseman, Pass By or The Last Picture Show? If so, how does this novel compare, particularly to his earlier works? If not, would you be interested in exploring more of his novels?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Which character do you feel changed the most across the novel? Did you relate to their journey in any way?

2. The “Wild West” is presented as a landscape that is overidealized and unforgiving.