Secret of the Andes

How does the novel contrast the Indigenous culture of the Incas with the influence of Spanish colonization?

Analyze the character of Chuto as a mentor figure. How does he guide Cusi throughout the novel, and what lessons does Cusi learn from him? Discuss how their relationship evolves over the course of the story.

How does destiny influence Cusi’s decisions, and how does the novel as a whole grapple with questions of free will versus predestination?

In what ways does the physical landscape of the Andes function as both a barrier and a bridge in Cusi’s journey? Discuss how specific geographical features—such as mountain trails, valleys, and rivers—represent the boundaries between different worlds and stages of his life.

Discuss the significance of music and oral traditions in preserving cultural heritage within the story. How do these elements serve to connect the characters to their past, and what role do they play in Cusi’s understanding of his identity?

How does Clark’s portrayal of Incan culture engage with or challenge the responsibilities of an author writing about a culture that is not their own?

How does the author use foreshadowing in Secret of the Andes to hint at Cusi’s true heritage and eventual role in preserving the Incan legacy?

Analyze how Cusi’s understanding of family changes as he encounters new people. How does the idea of family relate to Cusi’s Search for Personal Identity and place in the world?