One Plus One: A Novel

Jojo Moyes

57 pages 1-hour read

Jojo Moyes

One Plus One: A Novel

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014

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Essay Topics

1.

How does the novel’s polyphonic narrative complicate the reader’s moral judgment of its characters and develop the novel’s theme of The Impact of Socioeconomic Background on Opportunity?

2.

The novel juxtaposes Jess’s theft with Ed’s insider trading. Analyze how narrative techniques such as internal monologue, flashbacks, plot, and characterization argue for moral relativism. Does the novel ultimately suggest that morality itself is a privilege of wealth?

3.

Nicky’s blog evolves from a private outlet to a public platform that catalyzes significant plot developments. Analyze the function of his blog posts as an embedded narrative within the novel. How does this device allow Moyes to articulate the theme of The Resilience of the Non-Traditional Family in a voice that is distinct from the adult protagonists?

4.

Trace the evolution of the numbers motif in the novel. Analyze any three passages that focus on this motif and explore how its meaning shifts in each.

5.

Analyze how the novel contrasts the failure of institutions (like the police and school) with the transformative power of personal and collective kindness. What does it ultimately argue about systemic indifference and individual altruism?

6.

Think of another novel or film that falls under the road trip subgenre. Compare and contrast how this work and One Plus One adapt this narrative mode to explore their themes and characters.

7.

Examine how Marty serves as a foil to both Jess and Ed. How does his characterization not only highlight Jess’s resilience but also catalyze Ed’s own moral reckoning?

8.

One Plus One often uses humor through awkward situations, sharp dialogue, and absurd moments. Pick any two of these humorous scenes and analyze their thematic purpose.

9.

Analyze the novel’s use of setting as a tool for characterization.

10.

Both Ed and Jess undergo significant transformations by the novel’s close. Argue which character’s development is more central to the novel’s ultimate message about empathy and connection.

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