How does Ivan struggle with his past trauma and new parenthood? What messages about animals does Applegate deliver through Ivan’s struggles and fears? What are the main takeaways about the relationship between humans and animals?

Discuss the relationship between Ivan and Maya. Is this relationship positive, negative, or both? What do Ivan and Maya suggest about the relationship between captive and captor?

Compare and contrast Ivan’s relationship with Kinyani to his relationships with Bob and Ruby. How are the relationships the same and different? What does each relationship offer Ivan, and how does the interplay of these relationships affect how Ivan views himself and the other characters? How would Ivan be different without each of these characters?