Ninth Ward

A three-dimensional character is one who demonstrates a wide variety of traits—positive and negative, strengths and weaknesses. Lanesha accomplishes and overcomes so much that she might seem like a one-dimensional superhero at times. How does Rhodes keep Lanesha three-dimensional through traits like humility, weakness, negativity, and fear? In what scenes do these traits play a role, and what is the eventual result in the plot of the story? Select three to five examples of Lanesha’s more vulnerable qualities and examine how they affect the story and her character development.

The hurricane does not hit until just past the story’s halfway point. How does Rhodes build suspense and apprehension until then? Find at least three specific scenes to analyze with regard to the first half’s changing mood and atmosphere. Use details from these scenes to support your discussion.

In a story that uses first-person point of view from the main character’s perspective, the I-voice offers both a uniquely close look at the protagonist and presents some challenges as to how much of the story can be revealed. How do the narration’s limitations (i.