Reviews

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

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kim_j_dare's review against another edition

4.0

This story of Ivan, a silverback gorilla who has lived in captivity since he was captured as a baby, is loosely based on the true story of another Ivan who now resides in Zoo Atlanta. The Ivan of the story is also a roadside attraction in a shopping mall, and is fairly content with his life until a young elephant named Ruby is brought in to the attraction. Ivan makes a promise to his friend Stella, an older elephant who attempts to care for Ruby when she arrives, but who ultimately succumbs to an infection and dies. Determined to help Ruby escape this life of captivity, Ivan turns to his art. He is aided by the daughter of the groundskeeper, and it is ultimately her ability to see his message in his artwork that brings Ivan the public attention that he needs to get himself and Ruby removed from their shopping mall cages and relocated to a more spacious and animal-friendly zoo. The story and illustrations are sweet and engaging, and although the extent to which Ivan's artwork brings about his rescue is a little farfetched, children will enjoy suspending their disbelief as they listen to Ivan tell his tale.

jaimie_lynn's review against another edition

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5.0

"Humans. Sometimes they make chimps look smart."

So....who knew a kids book could destroy me in everyway possible? Not I said the cat.

Whoever knows me knows I HATE road side animal attractions, circuses, any take a picture with this animal or swim with that animal, Seaworld, and even some zoos. I'm an advocate for animals through and through.

This book was tooooough on my heart. It took everything I had not to cry the entire way through but when I got to the ending I sobbed like baby.

The book takes place at The Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. The place is run by Mack who has a gorilla, an elephant, and basically 2 dogs. The story is told by Ivan the gorilla and I love him so so much. You get the inside look at his feelings, what he's been through, and what's happening around him.

This is SUCH a good book for many reasons. Unfortunately I'm not going to share those reasons because I can't do it without giving a lot of the book away and I really don't like adding spoilers. But this is a great book for anyone. Even though it's labeled a kids book, I loved it at 34 and I would have loved it being even older as well. I can't wait to read The One and Only Bob! ❤️