2013 Newbery Medal Winner

 
Genre:
Children’s Fiction, Animal Welfare

Summary:
Ivan is a gorilla living at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. With him live his friends Stella the elderly elephant and Bob a reclusive stray dog.

For Ivan, life revolves around yogurt covered raisins, drawing and watching TV.

But all that changes with the arrival of Ruby, a baby elephant taken from her family. Ruby helps Ivan see his world with new awareness. And with Ruby as inspiration, Ivan will finally have the opportunity to be the mighty silverback he was always meant to be.

My Thoughts:
This is a poignant and compassionate story about standing up for what you believe in. Told through the eyes of Ivan, The One and Only Ivan tugs at your heart strings.

I’m always amazed and pleased to see such challenging topics tackled in a junior novel. Applegate tactfully raises awareness of the ethics surrounding animal captivity in a hopeful story of friendship and love. Ivan’s unbreakable spirit and quiet wisdom shine through. Ruby, Stella and Bob are strong supporting characters who complement Ivan’s strong but mellow attitude.

With a combination of heartwarming storytelling and endearing illustrations, Applegates The One and Only Ivan will entertain young and old alike!

Borrow The One and Only Ivan from your local Vaughan Library today!