Shell Shaker

Throughout the story, Howe emphasizes the idea that it takes a community to accomplish anything. This is evident through the structure of the novel overall: No one character has all the knowledge necessary to understand what is happening. It is not until the characters come together and share their knowledge that anything can be accomplished. The theme of community plays out on a small scale with the Billy family at its center, and on a larger scale, as the various members of the Choctaw come together to support the Billy family. Howe demonstrates this in smaller ways, such as when Isaac attempts to avoid the rude questions of a reporter from CNN, after Redford’s death. He feigns senility and is aided by a young Choctaw cameraman who tells the reporter to find someone else to question.

Characters who forget the importance of community, like Redford/Red Shoes and Anoleta/Auda, usually face negative consequences. One of the many reasons why Auda does not have to sacrifice herself in the same way that Anoleta did is because she has the support of her family, and eventually the community. Anoleta, on the other hand, insisted on being the only one who could kill Red Shoes.