The One and Only Ivan
Soon to be a major motion picture!
This Harper Classic edition of the Newbery Medal winner and #1 New York Times bestseller includes an author's note, a letter from the real Ivan's caretaker at Zoo Atlanta, Ivan's "signature," discussion questions, and more.
This unforgettable novel from renowned author Katherine Applegate celebrates the transformative power of unexpected friendship. Inspired by the true story of a captive gorilla known as Ivan, this illustrated book is told from the point of view of Ivan himself.
Having spent twenty-seven years behind the glass walls of his enclosure in a shopping mall, Ivan has grown accustomed to humans watching him. He hardly ever thinks about his life in the jungle. Instead, Ivan occupies himself with television, his friends Stella and Bob, and painting. But when he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from the wild, he is forced to see their home, and his art, through new eyes.
In the tradition of timeless classics such as Charlotte's Web and Stuart Little. Katherine Applegate's novel blends humor and poignancy to create this incredible tale of friendship, art, and hope. The One and Only Ivan was named to multiple state lists, received three starred reviews, and was hailed as a best book of the year by Kirkus, School Library Journal, and Amazon.
Plus don't miss Katherine Applegate's Endling series!
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Become an affiliateKatherine Applegate is the author of numerous books for young readers, which have won the Newbery Medal and made the New York Times bestsellers list.
"Important."--The Horn Book
"The One and Only Ivan will break your heart--and then, against all odds, mend it again. In cheering for Ivan and his friends, we cheer for our own humanity and our own possibilities. Read this."--Gary D. Schmidt, Newbery Honor author of The Wednesday Wars
"A beautifully written, intelligent and brave book. You will never look at the relationship of humans and animals in the same way again. Quite simply, this story is life changing."--Patricia MacLachlan, Newbery Medal-winning author of Sarah, Plain and Tall
"Katherine Applegate's beautiful, life-affirming story will soar directly from Ivan's heart into your own. Read it out loud. Read it alone. Read it."--Kathi Appelt, Newbery Honor author of The Underneath
★ "Will capture readers' hearts and never let go. A must have."--School Library Journal (starred review)
★ "Animal-loving youngsters and their adults will find plenty of food for thought in Ivan's extraordinary story."--Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)
★ "Exemplifies everything youngsters need to know about courage."--Kirkus Reviews (starred review)