Setting Exploration Julie of the Wolves

The setting of Julie of the Wolves plays an essential part in the novel. Students studying this book may benefit from the use of storyboards in identifying the different aspects of setting and their effect on the plot and characters. Remind students that setting includes the location, the time period, and the weather of a story. Then, ask them to create a three-cell storyboard depicting these three components of setting in the novel. Beneath each depiction, students should describe the image and explain the way that aspect of the setting contributes to the plot or character development in the novel.

Julie of the Wolves Setting Exploration Example

Time Period

The story is set in the early 1970s. This time period creates a conflict for Miyax since the ancient customs of her people are now dying out due to modernization. Even her father, Kapugen changes his way of life to fit the times.

Geographical Location

The story is set in the Arctic tundra of Alaska. This location gives Miyax the opportunity to encounter many interesting animals, including gray wolves, caribou, grizzly bears, lemmings, and many types of birds.

Weather and Time of Year

Miyax stays out on the tundra for a year. During this time, the weather ranges from -25° to 40°F. The sun also goes from staying in the sky all night to disappearing for 66 days of darkness. The cold weather allows Miyax to survive in creative ways, such as using water-soaked grasses to make ice poles. The unusual sunlight makes it difficult for Miyax to measure time.