Montana 1948

• Genre: Novella; fiction; historical fiction; coming-of-age
• Originally Published: 1993
• Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 880L; high school/adult
• Structure/Length: 3 parts; approximately 175 pages; approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes on audio
• Protagonist/Central Conflict: The story is narrated by David Hayden, who reflects on the events in his life when he was 12 years old and living in Montana. The central conflict involves a series of disturbing events following the discovery of a dark secret, forcing him to confront complicated truths about his family and the harsh realities of life.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Themes of abuse and sexual assault; racism; domestic violence; ethical dilemmas; suicide

Larry Watson, Author

• Bio: Born 1947; American author known for his detailed and atmospheric portrayal of the American West; professor emeritus of English at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point; often explores themes of morality, justice, and the complexity of human relationships in his work.
• Other Works: Let Him Go (2013); American Boy (2011); Justice (1995); Laura (2000)
• Awards: Milkweed National Fiction Prize (1993)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

• Racism
• Coming of Age/Adolescence
• Wild West
• Law and Law Enforcement
• Family Loyalty

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will:

• Develop an understanding of the historical and sociological contexts surrounding the US colonization of Indigenous tribes in the West, which impacts the treatment of women in the Bentrock community.