Dreams from My Father

Chapter 16

Introspection and Research Questions

Discussion Questions

What did you learn about Obama from reading this chapter? What was of most interest to you? What do you need more information about? What, if anything, was confusing to you?

In Chapter 16, Obama meets his half-brother, Bernard. Describe their relationship. What is Bernard like? What do they do together? What does Obama learn from Bernard? What does Bernard learn from Obama?

On pages 327-328, Obama explains his theory of what families and social relationships are. How does his time in Kenya change his perception of family, and his sense of responsibility towards family members?

There is a major dispute among members of Obama’s family. What is the problem? What position does Obama take?

Towards the end of the chapter, Obama meets his half-brother Mark, who is the son of Ruth and Obama’s father. Both Mark and Obama are the sons of the same African father but different white American mothers. What is the difference between these two men and their approach to their mixed race heritage and identity?

Cultural and Historical References
	Rambo p. 324 Sylvester Stallone stars in a series of films about a Vietnam veteran named Rambo.
	Magic Johnson - p. 325 Reknown for his career as a basketball player, Earvin “Magic” Johnson (1959 - ), in 1991, he created the Magic Johnson Foundation to fight against HIV/AIDS.
	Bob Marley – p. 327 Born in Jamaica, Bob Marley (1945-1981) was a singer and musician, known throughout the world for his renditions of reggae music.