Characters
This gentle gorilla is the narrator of the story.
This is the name of the mall where Ivan lives.
The Exit 8 Big Top Mall
Ivan makes this important promise to Stella before she dies.
To take care of Ruby
Ivan often says that memories are this—both helpful and painful.
Useful
"Humans waste words. They toss them like banana peels and leave them to rot.” What type of figurative language is this?
A simile
She is the wise elephant who inspires Ivan to make a promise.
Stella
Ivan’s “domain” includes a tire swing, a TV, and this important object he sleeps in.
Ivan's stuffed gorilla toy (Not-Tag)
When Ruby first arrives, this animal stays with her and comforts her.
Stella
This theme is shown when Ivan refuses to break his promise.
Responsibility
Ivan says he has a “silverback heart.” What type of figurative language is this?
A metaphor
This little girl encourages Ivan through sign language and visits him often.
Julia
Stella’s foot problems come from years of doing this.
Performing in the circus
Mack tries to make Ruby more entertaining by doing this to her.
Forcing her to perform/training her harshly
Ivan sometimes feels invisible at the mall. This connects to which theme about identity?
Being seen for who you truly are
“My thoughts are like tangled vines.”
What type of figurative language is used here?
A simile
He is Julia’s father and works as a janitor at the mall.
George
This food is one of Ivan’s favorites, often mentioned in the story.
A banana
Ivan realizes he must stop being patient and start doing this for Ruby.
Protecting her/changing their future
When humans misunderstand Ivan’s paintings, it shows this theme about communication.
Communication can be misunderstood
Ivan describes Mack as “a hurricane when he’s angry.”
What type of figurative language is this?
A metaphor
This animal arrives at the mall and becomes the reason Ivan wants to change everything.
Ruby
Ivan watches these human shows to understand the world outside his cage.
TV programs
Ivan decides to use his art in a new way—to send this kind of message.
A message that shows Ruby needs help / a protest
Ivan’s growing courage to protect Ruby illustrates this major theme of the novel.
Bravery/standing up for others
“The mall is a prison made of glass and laughter.”
Which type of figurative language is this?
Imagery/Metaphor