The One and Only Ivan

The One and Only Ivan, a #1 New York Times bestselling and Newbery Award-winning novel by Katherine Applegate, tells the story of a gorilla named Ivan who has spent 27 years in captivity in a shopping mall. Through Ivan’s perspective, this illustrated tale explores themes of friendship, art, and self-discovery, particularly after he meets Ruby, a baby elephant who inspires him to reevaluate his life and surroundings. Blending humor and poignancy, the novel captures the transformative power of unexpected relationships, making it an engaging choice for middle-grade readers.