Ivy and Bean

Bean associate the word “nice” with “boring”? How does Barrows relate this word to societal ideas about witchcraft?

In the beginning, Barrows’s narrator uses juxtaposition to highlight the differences between Ivy and Bean. As the narrative progresses, what happens to the differences? How do Bean and Ivy realize they’re more alike than opposite? Use specific examples from the story to support your answer.

Read some of the reviews of Ivy and Bean and discuss the different reactions. Why do some people think that Ivy and Bean as characters are harmful models for young people? Why do other people praise their characters?

The story features many humorous moments. Identify the comedic scenes that stand out and discuss how Barrows creates comedy in the narrative. How do Bean’s blunt diction and Ivy’s sincere devotion to witchcraft contribute to the humor?

What kind of big sister is Nancy? How does her relationship with Bean contribute to the common trope that siblings don’t get along? How does Barrows provide counterevidence to the siblings’ antagonism and reveal a kinder relationship between Bean and Nancy?

What motivates Ivy and Bean, and how does the theme of The Benefits of Cooperation help them fulfill their respective goals? Why does Bean want to punish Nancy, and how does Bean’s quest for retaliation help Ivy develop her witchcraft skills?

What does Ivy think about the representation of witches? She tells Bean, “Witches are only green in movies. Real witches are just regular-colored” (45). How does Ivy contribute to a positive, accessible image of witches? What makes Ivy a witch, and how does her identity reveal her confidence?

The Drama of Preparation is a central theme of the book. Discuss how the girls continually favor step-by-step planning over an immediate reaction. How does the punishment of Nancy require methodical plotting?