Review of The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
As a passionate reader, I’m always on the lookout for books that not only entertain but also leave a lasting impact. When I stumbled upon The One and Only Ivan, I was drawn in by its intriguing premise—centering around the life of a captive gorilla named Ivan, inspired by a true story. The themes of friendship and hope resonated deeply with me, prompting me to give this Newbery Award-winning novel a try.
The richness of Ivan’s character and the way Katherine Applegate crafts his world is simply captivating. For someone who has spent twenty-seven years confined in a shopping mall, Ivan’s perspective is surprisingly relatable and poignant. The novel’s first-person narrative pulls you into his thoughts and feelings, and I found myself empathizing with his longing for freedom and creativity.
Many readers, like Tressa, found the storytelling poetic, which indeed makes it an easy read, especially for younger audiences. The prose flows smoothly, filled with humor and heart, making it accessible for middle school readers. However, this lyrical quality often led to emotional moments that could bring a tear to the eye. I can also echo James Sparks’ sentiments about the book being a great introduction for children to literature; it perfectly blends engaging storytelling with thought-provoking themes that encourage deeper reflection.
One aspect I particularly appreciated was the way the story showcases the transformative power of friendship. The relationships Ivan forms with other characters—the matronly elephant Stella, the resourceful dog Bob, and the adorable baby elephant Ruby—communicate a profound message about compassion and community. It reminded me of timeless classics like Charlotte’s Web, where animals serve as both characters and symbols of important life lessons.
However, there were a couple of drawbacks that I couldn’t overlook. Some readers, like James Sparks, mentioned that the book is structured in a way that doesn’t break into chapters, which might have made navigation smoother. I did feel this at times, as the lack of chapter breaks made it challenging to pause in between sections without losing the narrative thread.
Furthermore, while I was captivated by the story, some scenes involving animal cruelty—including Ruby’s initial treatment—were difficult to stomach. As Christie Martin highlighted, the book’s darker themes can feel overwhelming for younger readers, but they serve the purpose of building emotional stakes in the narrative. The balance of light-hearted moments with the harsh truths of captivity is well done, but it demands sensitivity from parents or educators who may want to guide younger readers through it.
The book’s artwork complements the text beautifully, providing visual breaks that enhance the overall experience. The illustrations are contemporary and engaging, adding layers of meaning to the narrative without overshadowing it.
In retrospect, The One and Only Ivan exceeded my initial expectations. Its thoughtful exploration of friendship, freedom, and the inherent value of life resonates well beyond the pages. Applegate’s ability to weave humor into poignant moments creates a rich tapestry of storytelling that someday I would love to share with my younger siblings or children.
So, to conclude, I wholeheartedly recommend The One and Only Ivan to readers of all ages, especially those looking to understand the emotional boundaries of compassion and the importance of friendship. Prepare for an emotional journey that might leave you teary-eyed but ultimately hopeful. This story is a testament to the power of art and voice, even in the most unlikely of circumstances. Whether for independent reading or shared discussions in a classroom, this book is sure to spark meaningful conversations and reflections.
“Discover the heartwarming tale of friendship and resilience in The One and Only Ivan.” >>