The supporting characters also did a great job in supporting Ivan on his journey. Animals should not live in isolation/captivity.Ĭharacter Development: I loved the characters in this book! I especially loved Ivan and Bob (a stray dog) and the growth they experienced throughout the story.

Friendship can get you through the hardest of times. Themes: Art transcends language barriers. Katherine Applegate blends humor and poignancy to create Ivan’s unforgettable first-person narration in a story of friendship, art, and hope.” When Ruby arrives, change comes with her, and it’s up to Ivan to make it a change for the better. 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. 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. Instead, Ivan thinks about TV shows he’s seen and about his friends Stella, an elderly elephant, and Bob, a stray dog.

In fact, he hardly ever thinks about it at all. 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. There aren’t really any spoilers ahead, but you are welcome to jump to the TL DR summary at the bottom of the page if you’d prefer! “The One and Only Ivan” is an inspiring and uplifting story sure to be enjoyed by both children and adults.īelow you will find a more thorough review containing my thoughts about the book. However, even when things get tough, Ivan is always optimistic and finds power in his art. With themes of animal captivity and powerlessness, it can be quite sad at times. And it’s written in the first-person point of view from Ivan’s perspective! It’s a wonderful, cleverly written story that doesn’t pull its emotional punches. Spoiler-Free Review: Based on a true story, “The One and Only Ivan” is a story full of heart about a silverback gorilla named Ivan. However, this book was filled with so much heart and wit, I couldn’t help but love it.

“The One and Only Ivan” is a book that’s been on my radar for quite a while, and I was so excited to finally get to read it! I’ve heard great things, but I tend to be apprehensive about books featuring talking animals.

The only and only ivan book