The Marrow Thieves: Character Analysis

In Cherie Dimaline’s The Marrow Thieves, Wab is a complex character who goes through many impactful experiences, such as the events from her coming-to story and her spending more time with Chi-Boy. These experiences cause this character to develop throughout the novel, from being reserved to opening up and becoming more loving.

Early in the novel, Wab is reserved. Readers can see this in the chapter “A Plague of Madness,” where she was on edge after going hunting. Dimaline writes from Frenchie’s perspective, “Only Wab seemed stressed. She rushed ahead when we took our time. She was the last to fall asleep, walking the perimeter of the camp and double checking the wire alarms. She ate little and said even less. There was no real way to

This change is evident in the chapter “Wab’s Coming-To Story,” where Wab talks about her trauma for the first time with the group. Wab says, “And the…[man]... who set up the run, who handed over the Danishes and scurried off into the alleyways, that was the man I saw a week ago in the woods. I’m sure of it.” (86). When Wab shares her story and what gave her the defining scar on her face with the group, she opens up to them and tells them why she has been so on edge lately. Seeing the man that caused her trauma, the man that set her up for the later abuse and downright assault, which was something very private to her. Wab sharing that part of her life was an enormous step for her and showed her individual growth in trusting others enough to let them know the darkest parts of her history. Later, Wab shows more character growth in “Kiiwen,” where Wab and Chi-Boy share important information on their relationship. Dimaline writes, “Wab and Chi-Boy were officially shacked up now…When the heat brought with it summer clothing, it became apparent to all of us that Wab was expecting a baby.” (213). Wab being able to open up enough to start a relationship with Chi-Boy shows her growth into being a more open and loving person. She had to let go of her reserved self in order to build something with Chi-Boy, and it takes sensitivity to be in love with someone. Wab becoming a mother also shows her maturity that came during the novel,