TL;DR
The One and Only Ivan is a poignant and inspiring novel about a silverback gorilla named Ivan who lives in captivity in a suburban shopping mall. Ivan has been taught to draw by a kind human, and he uses his art to express his longing for freedom. The novel explores themes of loneliness, friendship, and the power of art.
Table of contents
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Writing Background
The One and Only Ivan is based on the true story of Ivan, a gorilla who lived in captivity at the B&I Shopping Center in Tacoma, Washington. Ivan was taught to draw by a human named Bob, and he became known for his beautiful artwork. Applegate was inspired by Ivan’s story, and she wrote The One and Only Ivan as a way to tell his story to a wider audience.
Author’s Introduction
Katherine Applegate is an American author of children’s books. She has written over 30 books, including The One and Only Ivan, which won the Newbery Medal in 2013. Applegate has also written several other award-winning books, including The Tyrant’s Daughter, which was a National Book Award finalist.
Key Insights
- The One and Only Ivan is a poignant and inspiring novel about a silverback gorilla named Ivan who lives in captivity in a suburban shopping mall.
- Ivan has been taught to draw by a kind human, and he uses his art to express his longing for freedom.
- The novel explores themes of loneliness, friendship, and the power of art.
- The One and Only Ivan is a well-written and engaging novel that is sure to appeal to readers of all ages.
Chapter Summary
- The novel opens with Ivan living in a cage at the B&I Shopping Center. He is lonely and unhappy, and he longs for freedom.
- Ivan is befriended by a young girl named Julia. Julia is kind and compassionate, and she helps Ivan to feel less alone.
- Ivan begins to draw pictures. His drawings are beautiful, and they express his longing for freedom.
- Ivan’s drawings attract the attention of a famous artist. The artist is impressed by Ivan’s work, and he helps to get Ivan’s drawings into an art show.
- The art show is a success, and Ivan’s drawings are praised by critics and the public.
- Ivan’s success leads to his eventual release from the shopping mall. He is taken to a sanctuary, where he can live out his days in peace and freedom.
Conclusion
The One and Only Ivan is a powerful and moving novel about the importance of freedom and the power of art. Ivan’s journey is inspiring, and his story is sure to stay with readers long after they finish the book.
Others
The One and Only Ivan has been praised by critics and readers alike. The novel has won numerous awards, including the Newbery Medal and the National Book Award. The One and Only Ivan has also been adapted into a major motion picture.