Bird Box

Compare the novel with the 2018 film adaptation directed by Susanne Bier. How do they differ, and what is gained or lost in the transition from one medium to another?

Analyze one or more suspenseful scenes. How does Malerman establish and increase tension? Be sure to consider specific stylistic choices.

In literary fiction, journeys down rivers often carry symbolic meaning, as in Josef Conrad’s iconic Heart of Darkness. Do you see Malorie and the children’s journey down the river as symbolic? If so, what does it symbolize?

Early on, Don is the most fearful and concerned about potential exposure to the creatures. Later, he becomes convinced that the threat of the creatures was overstated and pulls down the window covers. Despite his change in outward beliefs, which aspects of Don’s character remain consistent through his transformation? Provide quotations from the novel to support your claims.

What do Malorie and Tom’s experiences (among others) imply about the significance and power of memory as a motivating, transformative force?

Compare and contrast Malorie and Olympia as foil characters. Use passages from the text to frame your comparisons.

On their trip down the river, Malorie and the children encounter humans, animals, and one of the creatures. Compare these encounters in terms of the effect physical and emotional effects they have on Malorie.

While Malorie is expecting a child, Tom grieves the death of his daughter. What do their experiences during this time suggest about the impact of the parent-child relationships?