About This Book
Meg Wolitzer's 'Caribou' offers a sensitive portrayal of a family grappling with the profound impact of the Vietnam War draft. When Becca's older brother, Stevie, makes the courageous yet divisive decision to resist the draft and move to Canada, the family is left upset and deeply divided. Told from the perspective of young Becca, the novel explores themes of loyalty, personal conviction, the meaning of patriotism, and the emotional toll of war on those at home. It's a thoughtful historical fiction piece that can open conversations about difficult choices and family dynamics during times of national conflict.
When Becca's older brother Stevie is selected for the draft during the Vietnamese War, he decides to go to Canada instead, leaving his family upset and divided by his refusal to go to war.
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Discussion Prompts
1
How does Becca feel about her brother's decision? How do you think other family members feel?
2
What does it mean to be brave? Do you think Stevie was brave? Why or why not?
3
What are some reasons people might choose to go to war, or choose not to go to war?
4
How can families stay connected even when they disagree on big issues?
5
What is patriotism? Can someone love their country but disagree with its government's decisions?
6
How do historical events, like the Vietnam War, affect ordinary families?
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