THE ONE AND ONLY IVAN by Katherine Applegate
HARDCOVER
Author: Katherine Applegate
THE ONE AND ONLY IVAN is a moving and accessible novel told from the point of view of Ivan, a silverback gorilla who has spent years living behind glass in a shopping mall. Life has become familiar and predictable for Ivan, filled with television, painting, and the company of his friends; Stella the elephant and Bob the dog.
When Ruby, a young elephant taken from the wild, arrives, Ivan begins to see their world differently. Her presence stirs memories he has long pushed aside and challenges him to think about freedom, responsibility, and what it means to truly care for others. Through art and friendship, Ivan finds a way to speak up when it matters most.
Katherine Applegate’s writing is simple, thoughtful, and full of heart, making the story easy to read while deeply emotional. Inspired by a true story, the novel balances humour with serious themes such as captivity, kindness, and hope, without overwhelming younger readers.
A modern classic, The One and Only Ivan is perfect for animal lovers and thoughtful readers alike. Ideal for schools, libraries, and home collections, it’s a powerful story about friendship, empathy, and the courage to change the world - even from behind the glass.