I Am The Messenger

How does the setting in a “pretty run-of-the-mill” town contribute to the novel’s plot, character development, and overall meaning (17)? How do Ed’s feelings about his hometown and his own place in it evolve over the course of the novel?

Although some of the messages’ recipients only appear in a few chapters, they make significant contributions to Ed’s story. Select two of these supporting characters and compare their personalities and character arcs. How do they each play an important role in the novel by advancing the plot, developing a theme, or contributing to Ed’s character development?

In what ways is Ed shaped by his search for purpose and personal growth? What obstacles does he face in this search, and how does he achieve his potential? How does this theme impact the novel’s overall meaning?

How does the film hero Cool Hand Luke symbolize Ed? What parallels can you identify between the novel’s protagonist and the movie’s hero in terms of their emotions, struggles, and accomplishments?

Does Ed’s narration, peppered with self-critical thoughts, make him reliable as a narrator? Why or why not?

How does Zusak’s choice to use the playing cards reflect the characters of the novel culturally? How would the narrative change if Zusak had chosen a different vehicle for the messages?

Ed’s experiences as the messenger draw him close to complete strangers and deepen his relationships with his dearest friends. How do these relationships develop the theme of The Power of Human Connections and contribute to the novel’s overall meaning?

How has Ed’s relationships with his siblings impacted his self-image? In what ways does he indicate this and how do other characters in the novel confirm or refute his beliefs? Use examples from the text to explain your argument.