A review by backpackingbookworm
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

adventurous hopeful inspiring sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

 I stumbled across this book when planning the blog post for my reading challenge in May (<a href="https://backpackingbookworm.home.blog/2021/04/19/books-with-personified-animals/">books about personified animals</a>). After reading the description, I didn't hesitate to reserve at the library and enjoyed the story as much as I knew I would.

Ivan is an easy-going gorilla who has lived on the 8th floor of a shopping mall for 27 years. That is until Ruby the baby elephant arrives and makes him realise that there's more to life than his stifling cage. The story is based on true events which added that layer of realism as well as highlighting just how cruel humans can really be. Hope is not lost though - Ivan's POA to help Ruby escape also helps him create a better life for himself 🥰

This was a sweet yet impactful book that explores animal cruelty in a way that many other books in this age range do not. Although some parts are sad, they represent the heartbreaking truth surrounding many animals that are captured and placed in cages that give them little to no freedom. It is a book that teaches the reader many morals, including the power of friendship, intelligence, and hard work. Ivan could have continued living his miserable life but instead, he put his skills to use and helped the caged animals find a better future. It puts things into perspective and certainly gives the reader plenty of food for thought. I would definitely recommend it for audiences younger and older alike.

Rating breakdown
  • Plot/narrative - 4.2
  • Writing style/readability - 4.3
  • Characters - 4.5
  • Diverse themes - 4.2
  • Ending - 4.4
Overall - 4.3 
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