Winner of the prestigious Newbery Medal, The One and Only Ivan is a beautifully written children’s novel inspired by the true story of a captive gorilla. This unforgettable book follows Ivan, a silverback gorilla who lives in a glass enclosure at a mall circus, as he reflects on his past, forms meaningful friendships, and dreams of a better life.

Narrated in Ivan’s unique and captivating voice, this powerful story explores themes of compassion, resilience, animal welfare, and the true meaning of home. When a young elephant named Ruby arrives, Ivan is inspired to take action, leading to a courageous journey that will touch your heart.

Perfect for students, educators, and families, this bestselling novel combines emotional depth with accessible storytelling, making it an excellent choice for middle-grade readers (Ages 8–12) and beyond.

⭐ Key Features

• Award-Winning Title: Newbery Medal Winner for outstanding contribution to children’s literature
• Great for: Classroom reading, book clubs, independent reading, and family discussions

❤️ Why Readers Love It

• Engaging first-person narration from a gorilla’s perspective
• A powerful, emotional storyline that inspires kindness and awareness
• Short chapters make it accessible for reluctant readers
• A perfect blend of humor, heart, and meaningful life lessons

• Author: Katherine Applegate, bestselling and critically acclaimed writer
• Reading Level: Ideal for grades 3–7
• Themes: Friendship, empathy, animal rights, courage, self-discovery
• Format: . edition (ISBN 9780061992278)