The True Meaning of Smekday

The novel includes many instances where characters have to redefine or rethink their identity, such as Tip’s understanding of her place in a post-extraterrestrial invasion world and J.Lo’s quest to break free from the Boov’s rigid ideological programming. What does the novel argue about the process of self-discovery, particularly as it relates to socialization and conflict? How do both Tip and J.Lo’s evolving identities reflect larger societal struggles, such as assimilation and resistance? Use textual evidence to support your answer.

At the novel’s end, Tip writes that in real life, there is either no moral to the story, or there are too many morals of the story to list. Using evidence from the novel and analysis, argue for one of these two possibilities. If there is no moral, why? If there are many, what are they, and what contributes to them?

This novel features two extraterrestrial invaders, the Boov and the Gorg. What are the main differences and similarities between these two species? What is the narrative effect of Adam Rex including both rather than just one? How would the narrative change if it focused only on the Boov or the Gorg?