The One and Only Ivan

Identity & Self-Expression: Ivan reveals his identity through his art. What do his paintings show about his inner thoughts that he can't express with words? In what ways does creativity act as a means of communication for those who lack a voice?

Freedom & Captivity: Having lived in the mall for so long, Ivan struggles to recall his life in the wild. How does the arrival of Ruby spark his gradual awakening and reshape his understanding of what it means to be truly free?

Promises & Responsibility: Ivan makes a promise to Stella on her deathbed. What does this promise cost him, and what does it demonstrate about loyalty, sacrifice, and the meaning of keeping your word, even when it’s tough?

Perspective & Empathy: The story is told from Ivan's perspective. How does viewing the events through an animal's eyes affect your empathy for animals in captivity? Has it altered your thoughts on zoos or performing animals?

Community & Found Family: Ivan, Stella, Bob, and Ruby create an unexpected family. How does the author use their relationships to explore themes of belonging and chosen family?

Human vs. Animal: Mack believes he cares for his animals well. Do you agree or disagree? Where do we draw the line between care and exploitation, and who gets to make that decision?

Identity & Self-Expression: Ivan expresses himself through his art and memories of the wild. How does his sense of identity evolve throughout the novel, and which events significantly shape who he becomes?

Freedom & Captivity: The animals in the Big Top Mall have lives vastly different from what they would experience in the wild. What does the novel imply about the true meaning of freedom? Is it solely physical, or can it encompass emotional and psychological aspects as well?

Promises & Loyalty: Ivan makes a promise to Ruby and Stella. How does the burden of that promise influence his actions? What message does the novel convey about the importance of keeping one's word, even when it’s challenging?

Human Responsibility: Mack, Julia, and George each interact with the animals in distinct ways. What does the novel suggest about humanity’s responsibility towards animals? Do you believe any of the human characters can be labeled as purely "good" or "bad"?

Voice of the Voiceless: Ivan narrates the story in a simple and straightforward manner. Why do you think the author chose to tell the story from Ivan's perspective? How does viewing the world through his eyes alter your perception?

Hope & Change: At the novel's conclusion, Ivan and the other animals are relocated to a zoo. Is this truly a happy ending? What would a genuinely ideal outcome look like for Ivan and his friends?