The one and only Ivan

Resource Information

The work The one and only Ivan represents a distinct intellectual or artistic creation found in Nevins Memorial Library (Methuen). This resource is a combination of several types including: Work, Language Material, Books.

The Resource The one and only Ivan

Statement of responsibility: Katherine Applegate ; illustrations by Patricia Castelao

Summary

Ivan is an easygoing gorilla. Living at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade, he has grown accustomed to humans watching him through the glass walls of his domain. He rarely misses his life in the jungle. In fact, he hardly ever thinks about it at all. Instead, Ivan thinks about TV shows he's seen and about his friends Stella, an elderly elephant, and Bob, a stray dog. But mostly Ivan thinks about art and how to capture the taste of a mango or the sound of leaves with color and a well-placed line. Then he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from her family, and she makes Ivan see their home - and his own art - through new eyes. When Ruby arrives, change comes with her, and it's up to Ivan to make it a change for the better. Katherine Applegate blends humor and poignancy to create Ivan's unforgettable first-person narration in a story of friendship, art, and hope. -- From dust jacket
When Ivan, a gorilla who has lived for years in a down-and-out circus-themed mall, meets Ruby, a baby elephant that has been added to the mall, he decides that he must find her a better life

Intended audience

Intended audience source

Interest level

Reading level

Study program name

Context

Context of The one and only Ivan