The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
by Sam Arnold-Boyd on Oct.07, 2013, under Abuse, Adventure, Animal, Newbery, Sam's Reviews
Who would like this book? People, ages 8 and up, who like stories told from the point of view of animals (in this case, a silverback gorilla) with a strong theme of friendship and hope.
The goods on this book: Ivan has lived a depressing life for 27 years at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade, a terrible type of inhumane “zoo” that used to be common. Stella, an old elephant, and a feisty dog name Bob, keep him company, but Ivan has given up hope for a better life. He tries to console himself with his art, but he is close to giving up hope. Things in the zoo are turned upside down when Ruby, a baby elephant, arrives and awakens Ivan’s protective nature. Ruby is the spark that makes Ivan and Stella hope for a better life, and Ivan comes up with a highly unlikely plan that capitalizes on his unusual artistic talent. The layout of the book, with timely illustrations and lots of white space, adds to Ivan’s storytelling. I found this book to be moving and inspiring, and I especially loved the ending. It’s not a surprise that it won the prestigious Newbery Award for 2013.
The details: 305 pages; 2012 Review by Samrarian
