The One and Only Ivan
By Katherine Applegate
A Book Review by First, Second, and Third Grade Students in the MAC Class
at Cardiff School
Have you ever wondered what it is like to be an animal? A gorilla? What would it be like to hear their thoughts, their feelings? The One and Only Ivan brings you into the creative mind of the mighty silverback gorilla, Ivan. Ivan is a special gorilla with a special talent that he puts to use in an unexpected way. Ivan lives in his glass-enclosed cage, which he calls his domain, in the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. When he was young he was treated like a human, but now he has been isolated in his domain for twenty-something years. He has many friends, two of which are animal friends. Stella is an elephant and Bob is a small free-spirited dog who likes to sleep on Ivan’s furry belly. Ivan also has three human friends: Mack, the owner of the mall, George the man who cleans the mall, and Julia, George’s daughter—the artist. When the Big Top Mall starts to run out of money, Mack gets a new animal…a curious baby elephant, and the troubles soon begin. But when tragedy hits, can Ivan keep his promise? There are a few tragic parts and a few happy parts in this story…you’ll want to read it to find out what happens.
The One and Only Ivan is based on a true story of a gorilla named Ivan and his life in captivity. This is a fascinating book that you and your family will love! You will not want to put the book down. Beginning readers will like it as a read aloud; advanced readers will enjoy reading it themselves. We recommend this book to adults and children who are interested in animals and their welfare. It is a pleasing story to your ears and your heart. If you like fun, long, and exciting chapter books told from an animal’s point of view, get the The One and Only Ivan today!