91 pages • 3 hours read
Katherine ApplegateThe One And Only Ivan
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2012A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate is about Ivan, a gorilla who has lived in captivity at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall for 27 years. He forms friendships with Stella, an elderly elephant, Bob, a stray dog, and Julia, the janitor’s artistic daughter. With the arrival of a baby elephant named Ruby, Ivan is inspired to find a better life for her and ultimately himself, thus discovering his own strength and identity through art and courage. The book contains themes of animal cruelty and loss.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Katherine Applegate’s The One and Only Ivan garners praise for its compelling narrative and deep emotional resonance. The anthropomorphic portrayal of animals and the story’s themes of freedom and friendship are highly impactful. However, some readers felt the pacing was slow at times. Overall, it’s a touching and thought-provoking read suitable for both children and adults.
Who Should Read The One And Only Ivan?
A reader who enjoys The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate is typically a middle-grade student aged 8-12 with an interest in animal stories and themes of friendship and freedom. Fans of Charlotte's Web by E.B. White and Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo will also find this book appealing.
RecommendedReading Age
8-12yearsLexile Level
570L