Name: The One and Only Ivan
ISBN: 9780008408367

The One and Only Ivan

Beth Ferry

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Author Description

Now a major motion picture available on Disney+! Inspired by a true story, this is the beautifully written tale of how a mighty gorilla wins his freedom. A winning blend of humour and poignancy that will appeal to fans of Michael Morpurgo. This #1 New York Times bestselling and Newbery Award-winning novel is coming to the big screen this summer, with a star-studded cast including Sam Rockwell, Angelina Jolie, Danny DeVito, Helen Mirren, Bryan Cranston, and more! Ivan is an easy-going gorilla who has spent his life performing for the crowds at the Exit 8 shopping mall. He rarely misses life in the jungle. In fact, he hardly thinks about it at all. But everything changes when a baby elephant called Ruby arrives and Ivan realises he must find a new life for them both. Told from Ivan's perspective, this is a stand-out novel with a pertinent message, ideal for readers of 9+.

Menrva's Summary

THE PULSE

A gorilla named Ivan, living a life of performance at a shopping mall, must find a way to escape and secure a better future for himself and a new young elephant companion. Ivan, accustomed to his predictable existence at the Exit 8 mall, has largely forgotten his jungle origins. His world shifts with the arrival of Ruby, a baby elephant, prompting Ivan to recognize the limitations of their captive lives and to orchestrate a plan for their freedom. The narrative unfolds through Ivan's unique perspective, navigating the constraints of his environment and the human world that dictates his fate.

INSIDE THE PAGES

Narrative told from the first-person perspective of Ivan the gorilla.
Exploration of themes of captivity, freedom, and friendship.
Introduction of a new character, Ruby the baby elephant, who acts as a catalyst for change.
Ivan's internal struggle and growing awareness of his situation.
The setting of a shopping mall and its impact on the animals.
Ivan's attempts to remember and reclaim his past.
The eventual goal of returning to a more natural habitat.

THE COLLECTIVE ECHO

This novel, inspired by a true story, has achieved significant recognition, including the #1 New York Times bestseller status and a Newbery Award. It is praised for its blend of humor and poignancy, making it appealing to a wide readership. The narrative's unique perspective from an animal protagonist offers a fresh take on themes of captivity and freedom. Its adaptation into a major motion picture further attests to its broad appeal and impact.

Page Count:
256

Publication Date:
2020-01-01

Publisher:
HarperCollins Publishers Limited

ISBN-10:
000840836X

ISBN-13:
9780008408367

Animals

Fiction

Children's

Friendship

Environment

Elephants

Zoos