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The One and Only Ivan

This poignant series follows the lives of captive animals who maintain hope and humanity despite challenging circumstances. Through the eyes of its main characters, including a wise gorilla and his canine and elephant friends, it explores themes of freedom, friendship, and the power of art. The stories are filled with emotion, from sorrow to joy, offering a profound look at what it means to be human, even when you aren't one.

The One and Only Ivan
The One and Only Bob
Ivan: A Gorilla's True Story

Recommended Reading Order

  1. 1

    The One and Only Ivan

    • 336 pages
    • 12 hours of reading
    4.3(182654)Add rating

    Soon to be a major motion picture! Winner of the Newbery Medal and a #1 New York Times bestseller This unforgettable novel from renowned author Katherine Applegate celebrates the transformative power of unexpected friendship. Inspired by the true story of a captive gorilla known as Ivan, this illustrated book is told from the point of view of Ivan himself. Having spent twenty-seven years behind the glass walls of his enclosure in a shopping mall, Ivan has grown accustomed to humans watching him. He hardly ever thinks about his life in the jungle. Instead, Ivan occupies himself with television, his friends Stella and Bob, and painting. But when he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from the wild, he is forced to see their home, and his art, through new eyes. In the tradition of timeless stories like Charlotte's Web and Stuart Little, Katherine Applegate blends humor and poignancy to create an unforgettable story of friendship, art, and hope. The One and Only Ivan features first-person narrative; author's use of literary devices (personification, imagery); and story elements (plot, character development, perspective). Plus don't miss Katherine Applegate's Endling series!

    The One and Only Ivan
  2. 2

    Bob sets out on a dangerous journey in search of his long-lost sister with the help of his two best friends, Ivan and Ruby. As a hurricane approaches and time is running out, Bob finds courage he never knew he had and learns the true meaning of friendship and family.

    The One and Only Bob