The One and Only Ivan
Author: Katherine Applegate
Ivan is a Silverback Gorilla. While he should be roaming in the jungle with his family doing what gorillas do, instead he is a featured attraction at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. His best friends are an elephant named Stella and Bob, a stray dog. They deal with their life in cages and being on display or being forced to perform. Until one day, the Mall Owner brings in a baby elephant. Ruby is scared and doesn't understand where she is. And Ivan makes a promise to protect her. A promise he will keep.
This is such an emotional and heartfelt story. I listened to the audio book version and enjoyed every minute. The audio is just short of 4 hours long and is narrated by Adam Grupper. The story kept my attention from start to finish. This is a middle grade book and would be enjoyable for older children. And adults for that matter, as I enjoyed it immensely!
Loosely based on a real gorilla who was kept as a mall attraction and later transferred to Atlanta Zoo, this story hits home regarding the sad lives of animals kept on display in cages and trained to perform. Although the story does discuss animal capture, health concerns and training, it is not graphic. There is nothing inappropriate for middle grade age children.
I enjoyed this story! I'm definitely going to read the second book: The One and Only Bob.
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