Written by Katherine Applegate, Illustrated by Patricia Castelao
A unique new middle grade novel, The One and Only Ivan is a simple story told from the point of view of the gorilla Ivan, who lives in a glass cage in the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. Ivan is actually an artist, he draws and fingerpaints pictures which are sold in the mall for $25.00. His best friends are Stella the elephant, and Bob, a stray dog that sneaks into his cage and sleeps on his belly at night. When Ruby, a new baby elephant, comes to the Exit 8 Big Top Mall, Ivan comes to remember his early life in the African jungle, and he develops a plan to find a better home for Ruby (and for himself.)
This book is not quite like any other children’s book I have ever read. I think young readers will thrill to be able to see the world from the point of view of Ivan and identify with him. It is filled with humor dosed with sadness, but it is ultimately hopeful. It is written in many short scenes with a spare, poetic prose that is slightly reminiscent of Kate DiCamillo. This spareness would make it a good choice to recommend to reluctant readers. I highly recommend this book for every elementary library.
Review by Joshua Whiting, Granite District Library Media Program
Rating: (4.5 Stars)
Interest Level: Grades 3-7
The One and Only Ivan
Written by Katherine Applegate, Illustrated by Patricia Castelao
Harper
305 pages
Release Date: January 17, 2012
ISBN: 9780061992254 (hardcover)
I have a copy of this book to give away! Leave a comment on this post by the end of Tuesday, April 3, 2012 for a chance to win it. Thanks.
Our upper grade teachers are always looking for a good read aloud – this sounds like a great one! It’s fun to show Granite Media to teachers looking for new books.
Dian,
You are the winner! Thanks.
Sounds great. We would love a copy.
When I first heard about this book, it caught my interest. I look forward to reading it and sharing it with our students.
I have heard such great things about this book. We would love to have it at Vista.
This sounds like an intriguing book-I would definitely be interested in reading it.
I want one.
Rosecrest would love a copy!
I really liked this book. It was a cute and heart tugging story. It is a good one for Elementary and Jr. High. Good Luck I hope you win!
Does that mean you already have it and don’t want to be entered in the drawing yourself?
I want to read the one and only Ivan and now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!