1. It establishes Jambo's past and his longing for freedom: Stella's story reveals that Jambo, a gorilla, was captured from the wild and brought to the mall. This information highlights the tragedy of his situation, emphasizing that he was once a wild animal living a life of freedom and now exists in a confined, unnatural environment.
2. It introduces the concept of "home": Stella's story underscores the significance of home for Jambo, emphasizing his yearning for his natural habitat and his desire to return. This theme is further explored throughout the book as Ivan grapples with his own longing for something more than the confines of his enclosure.
3. It highlights the emotional depth of animals: By telling Jambo's story, Stella humanizes him and demonstrates that animals have complex emotions and desires, just like humans. This portrayal challenges the reader's perception of animals as simple creatures and invites empathy for their plight.
4. It sets the stage for Ivan's own journey: Jambo's story inspires Ivan to think beyond his own situation. It prompts him to consider his own past, his own longing for freedom, and his own connection to nature.
5. It creates a bond between Stella and Ivan: The story about Jambo serves as a shared experience for Stella and Ivan, creating a bond between them. This bond helps Ivan to connect with Stella's love for animals and her desire to help them.
6. It foreshadows the ending: The story of Jambo ultimately acts as a foreshadowing of the book's resolution. Just as Jambo longed to return to his natural habitat, Ivan will eventually find a way to return to a place where he can truly feel at home.
In conclusion, the story Stella tells about Jambo is a crucial element of "The One and Only Ivan." It serves as a catalyst for Ivan's personal growth, highlights the importance of freedom and connection to nature, and ultimately drives the plot towards its impactful resolution.