The One and Only Ivan

The One and Only Ivan
by: Katherine Applegate

Should you read it?: Yes
Category: Middle Grade

I read this for a Young Adult and Children's Literature class for my Masters program. The One and Only Ivan was the 2013 Newberry Medal Winner. The Medal is given each year to the American Library Association's choice for the most distinguished American children's book published that year. I loved this book! It's told from the perspective of Ivan, who is a silver-backed gorilla living in a big top mall. According to Amazon, it's recommended for ages 8-12, grades 3-7, but I believe it was enjoyable for anybody older than that as well!

Things I liked
I loved that the story was told from Ivan's perspective. It was just a really fun take on all of it.

I loved that it raises some great issues and questions about the treatment of animals in captivity. It would raise some great conversations with students if read in a classroom or with your children at home. I definitely recommend it!

Things I didn't
This isn't a wish as much as a warning. I wouldn't read it to younger children just because some of the treatment of the animals could be upsetting. There is an elephant who deals with some pretty sad stuff.

Overall: This is such a wonderful story that would be enjoyed by any age!

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