Blackfeet Reservation

Many of the characters are Blackfeet Native Americans, and much of the novel’s action takes place on/near the Blackfeet Reservation. This reservation is located in Montana and is headquartered in the town of Browning. The Natives face threats of violence when they leave the reservation, but the reservation itself is also a manifestation of the United States’ history of oppression against the Natives. Not long after Lewis, Gabe, Ricky, and Cassidy have their hunting privileges revoked, Lewis and Ricky decide to leave the reservation, while Gabe and Cassidy remain.

Hunting Grounds, Restricted Area

One of the most important events in the novel takes place ten years prior to the main narrative. Lewis, Gabe, Cassidy, and Ricky go hunting elk on/near the reservation. When they see a large herd of elk move into a restricted area, they decide to pursue. The area is off-limits to...