Essay Questions

How does the author develop the theme of individuality in the book ‘Bone Game’?

Cole and Alex are depicted as the two main characters who struggle with the identity crisis. Cole has a dark background because he is partly a Native American and European. Cole's personality and actions show that he struggles to understand who he is, and the reader can conclude that he has identity issues. Alex is also confused because his individuality is not apparent. For instance, the reader finds it hard to figure that Alex is a man because he sometimes dresses like a woman. Throughout the book, Alex remains an ambiguous character because physically, he looks masculine, but his actions are feminine.

What is the symbolic meaning of the ‘Bone Game’?

Throughout the book, the author portrays Cole as a disturbed character because of his endless nightmares. The title ‘Bone Game’ emblems Cole’s regrets for being alive while his brother died too soon. Cole is guilt that he does not deserve to live because he does not understand why death chose his brother instead of him. Consequently, the memories of his brother keep on popping whenever Cole goes to bed because he sinks into the world of nightmares.

Why is the author depicting Alex a satirical and vague character?

Alex is a Native American who is struggling with his personality. Alex falls in love with Abby despite portraying a feminine character. The reader does not expect Abby to fall for Alex, but that is not the case. It is ironic that despite Alex depicting more feminine traits, he still knows that he needs to date the opposite sex. The reader concludes that Alex is aware of who he is despite dressing like a woman.