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The One And Only Ivan

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

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Katherine Applegate

The One And Only Ivan

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Shopping Mall • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

570L

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Super Short Summary

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate is about Ivan, a gorilla who has lived in captivity at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall for 27 years. He forms friendships with Stella, an elderly elephant, Bob, a stray dog, and Julia, the janitor’s artistic daughter. With the arrival of a baby elephant named Ruby, Ivan is inspired to find a better life for her and ultimately himself, thus discovering his own strength and identity through art and courage. The book contains themes of animal cruelty and loss.

Heartwarming

Emotional

Bittersweet

Inspirational

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.5

221,440 ratings

84%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Katherine Applegate’s The One and Only Ivan garners praise for its compelling narrative and deep emotional resonance. The anthropomorphic portrayal of animals and the story’s themes of freedom and friendship are highly impactful. However, some readers felt the pacing was slow at times. Overall, it’s a touching and thought-provoking read suitable for both children and adults.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The One And Only Ivan?

A reader who enjoys The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate is typically a middle-grade student aged 8-12 with an interest in animal stories and themes of friendship and freedom. Fans of Charlotte's Web by E.B. White and Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo will also find this book appealing.

4.5

221,440 ratings

84%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Ivan

Ivan is a gorilla who has lived in a mall cage for 27 years as part of a small circus. He is based on a real gorilla of the same name. Throughout *The One and Only Ivan*, Ivan evolves from seeing himself as "just Ivan" to reclaiming his identity as a "Mighty Silverback" and protector, driven by his relationships with other animals, a young girl named Julia, and his love for art.

Stella is an older elephant at the mall, wise and experienced, having spent years in a human circus. She remembers every detail of her past and shares her stories with Ivan and Ruby, gently pushing Ivan to confront his own past and helping him find his true purpose.

Ruby is a young, spirited elephant brought to the mall, who forms an immediate connection with Stella, whom she calls Aunt Stella. Her arrival prompts both Stella and Ivan to rethink their situations, as they fear she will share their confined fate.

Bob is a small stray dog who sleeps on Ivan's belly. He prides himself on being free and independent after surviving abandonment as a puppy. While appearing cynical and independent, Bob cares deeply for his animal friends and eventually finds a home.

Julia is the artistic 10-year-old daughter of the mall janitor, George. She spends time with the animals, particularly Ivan, and unlocks Ivan's artistic talents with a crayon and paper. Her compassion and understanding of suffering guide Ivan towards a brighter future.

George is the mall janitor and Julia's father. He is a loving parent, trying to manage familial responsibilities while maintaining his job. Although initially hesitant, he ultimately aids Julia's efforts to help the mall animals find a better life.

Mack is the owner of the Big Top Mall, overseeing the animals and circus. He once cared for Ivan as his child but later prioritizes financial gain over animal welfare. Mack's actions reflect a complex character, neither entirely malicious nor entirely caring.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Shopping Mall • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

570L

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