The Last Mapmaker

Many aspects of The Last Mapmaker reflect identifiable patterns of storytelling called archetypes. Discuss how this novel’s use of such archetypes supports or detracts from its theme development and entertainment value.

Identify Sai’s strengths and flaws, and describe how they influence her choices and her overall character arc. Using examples from the text, compare and contrast her views from before and after her voyage.

What does Paiyoon value about Sai, both in the beginning of the novel and at the end?

What does Sai learn from her interactions with Bo, and how do these lessons contrast with the lessons she learns from her interactions with Grebe? Use specific examples from the text to prove your point.

Describe the setting of Mangkon, including its history, its political structure, and its cultural values. How do these factors influence the story’s plot and conflicts?

Why is the book titled The Last Mapmaker? What does this title suggest about Paiyoon’s career and about the symbolic role of maps in the story?

Discuss Queen Siripatra’s role in the story. What larger attitudes does she represent, and how does the author invoke her presence even though the queen never appears in person?

How does the concept of loyalty influence the evolution of the novel’s central themes? Focus on at least two characters and evaluate their varying approaches to loyalty.