Shadowshaper

Robbie’s tattoos honor his varied cultural heritage. Why is it so important for Robbie to have these tattoos?

Sierra’s friends play a major role in the novel. Discuss how her friends—including Robbie, Nydia, Bennie, Tee, Izzy, and Big Jerome—helped her throughout her process of learning about shadowshaping. What is Older trying to tell us about friendship and community?

As the antagonist of the novel, Wick does many bad things, but one of the worst is how he takes power from others to make himself stronger. Compare him to Sierra and how they use their power and leadership differently.

The setting of Shadowshaper plays a huge role in the story. Describe its influence on the plot and/or characters.

Many people in Sierra’s family—including María, Tía Rosa, and Gael—refuse to accept their shadowshaping powers. Why are they so hesitant? What might this resistance represent?

Sierra learns that Grandpa Lázaro has some old-fashioned ideas about only giving powers to other men and making the shadowshapers a “boys’ club.” Why is it important that Sierra discovers the powers of Lucera come through her grandmother, Mama Carmen?

How does Sierra change from the beginning to the end of the book? What helps her to become the new person she is by the end of the novel?

Sierra’s art plays a huge role in the novel. What is the connection between artwork and remembering our loved ones who have passed on?