The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

The One and Only Ivan (The One and Only Ivan, #1)

by Katherine Applegate

Now a major motion picture available on Disney+!

Inspired by a true story, this is the beautifully written tale of how a mighty gorilla wins his freedom. A winning blend of humour and poignancy that will appeal to fans of Michael Morpurgo.

This #1 New York Times bestselling and Newbery Award-winning novel is coming to the big screen this summer, with a star-studded cast including Sam Rockwell, Angelina Jolie, Danny DeVito, Helen Mirren, Bryan Cranston, and more!

Ivan is an easy-going gorilla who has spent his life performing for the crowds at the Exit 8 shopping mall. He rarely misses life in the jungle. In fact, he hardly thinks about it at all. But everything changes when a baby elephant called Ruby arrives and Ivan realises he must find a new life for them both.

Told from Ivan’s perspective, this is a stand-out novel with a pertinent message, ideal for readers of 9+.

Reviewed by brokentune on

5 of 5 stars

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Review first published on BookLikes: http://brokentune.booklikes.com/post/899198/the-one-and-only-ivan

4.5*

“Memories are precious,” Stella adds. “They help tell us who we are."

This was unexpected. There I was, sitting at work, checking BL updates, minding my own business, when - WHAM! - Martini exercised her Svengali-mind-control tricks. Next thing I know, I'm engrossed in the story of Ivan, the one and only.

Ivan is gorilla who is kept in a circus themed mall. He loves art.

There is not much more I can say without spoiling the story, so I won't.

Except, I cannot remember the last time when a visit to the mall filled me with so much rage, sadness, and just enough hope to keep from despairing over human stupidity.

"Humans.
Sometimes they make chimps look smart."

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 7 June, 2014: Finished reading
  • 7 June, 2014: Reviewed