1. There are divergent ideas as to why many pioneers were often photographed with prized possessions such as pianos, sewing machines, and musical instruments included in the portraits. Some historians say the subjects were told to bring out their cherished objects for photographing. Others say people left these outside the soddy anyway since quarters were so crowded and Nebraska was generally very dry. What is your opinion about this, and what are your reasons?

2. If you were told to bring your most prized possessions to be photographed with your portrait, what would you bring? What do you think your parents would bring?

3. Conrad's portrayal of Butcher is succinct; his biography reduced to a minimum of facts. Do you think the book would have been improved with more details or do you think her concise style is better?

4. Conrad pictures Butcher as being dilatory, scheming, lackadaisical...