1. Irene talks in the book about having birds as pets since she was 4 years old. Though her Ph.D. is in Theoretical Chemistry, she describes how her love of birds moved her to make animal psychology her career. Has your love of animals or a pet in particular affected your life in such a way?

2. Because Alex was her research subject, Irene discusses how she had to keep her objectivity with him when he was alive. Based on what you read about their relationship, discuss whether you think she really was able to maintain her objectivity or if, in many ways, he was like a real pet to her.

3. Irene acquired Alex from a pet store where she let the owner chose one from among eight parrots. Discuss stories of how you came to have the pets in your lives. Did you find your pets or did they find you?

4. African Grays are known for their ability to mimic speech. But all animals have their ways of communicating with us. Discuss stories of your own special brand of communication with your pets.