The One and Only Ivan is a heartwarming novel that captured the hearts of readers worldwide, earning the title of #1 New York Times bestseller and the prestigious Newbery Award. Written by the acclaimed author Katherine Applegate, this unforgettable story resonates with themes of friendship, art, and hope. The inspiration behind the book lies in the true story of a captive gorilla named Ivan, whose life is depicted through his own first-person narrative.
Having spent twenty-seven years behind the glass walls of his enclosure in a shopping mall, Ivan becomes accustomed to the curious humans who observe him daily. Instead of reminiscing about his life in the jungle, he engages with his friends: a nurturing elephant named Stella and a stray dog named Bob. Each day is filled with the sounds of television and the routine of watching humans pass by. However, everything changes when a baby elephant named Ruby arrives, taken from her wild home.
Faced with Ruby’s innocent curiosity and vibrant spirit, Ivan is compelled to reevaluate his surroundings and the meaning of freedom. Through his art and burgeoning friendship with Ruby, he learns to see their world anew, sparking a journey of self-discovery. As Ivan shares his thoughts on captivity and creativity, readers of all ages are invited to reflect on the importance of compassion and connection.
Blending humor and poignancy, Applegate’s writing deftly employs literary devices such as personification and rich imagery to draw readers into Ivan's world. The novel's engaging plot and character development are perfect for middle grade readers in grades 5 to 8, making it an exceptional choice for independent reading, homeschooling, and classroom sharing.
No discussion of Ivan's adventures would be complete without mentioning the follow-up book, The One and Only Bob, where readers can further explore the beloved characters created by Katherine Applegate. Whether you are discovering Ivan for the first time or revisiting his story, this illustrated book is a timeless addition to any young reader’s library.
