READERS GUIDE

Reader’s Guide
Lucy on the Wild Side by Kerry Rea
Discussion Questions:

1. Lucy struggles with stage fright but is ultimately able to overcome her fear of the camera. Have you ever suffered from stage fright or had to face a fear like Lucy does? What was the experience like?

2. Throughout the book, Lucy deals with a complicated relationship with her mom. How do you think their relationship will evolve after Lucy returns from her trip? Do you think it’s possible for them to become friends, as Karina hopes? Why or why not?

3. The beloved gorilla Zuri plays a transformative role in Lucy’s life. Has an animal ever touched your heart the way Zuri touches Lucy’s? How?

4. Lucy has idolized Dr. Charlotte Kimber since childhood, but when they finally meet, she learns that her hero is nothing like she imagined. Do you think the saying “never meet your heroes” holds merit? Have you ever had an experience like Lucy’s?

5. Lucy fulfilled her childhood dream of becoming a gorilla keeper. When you were a child, what did you dream of becoming? Why?

6. When Lucy and Kai meet, they get off on the wrong foot. Have you ever disliked someone initially but later developed a friendship or romantic relationship after getting to know them? What was it like?

7. Lucy steps out of her comfort zone by traveling to Rwanda with Kai at the end of the book. If you could travel anywhere, where would you go? Why?

8. Lucy is so devoted to her career that she struggles to balance it with her personal life. Have you ever struggled with finding a work-life balance? If so, how did you manage it?

9. Elle and Sam embrace Lucy for who she is, but they also gently point out her tendency to hold grudges. How do you think their friendship impacts Lucy’s ability to grow? Has a friend ever
helped you see a situation in a new light?

10. Do you have a favorite wildlife reality television show? If you could be cast in any reality television show, which would you want to be in?