Ivan is a tenderhearted silverback gorilla that was born in Africa and captured by humans when he was young. We meet Ivan after he’s been living on display for years at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade.
Ivan passes time as an artist, a talent he learned from the mall custodian’s daughter, Julia. He keeps company with several other animals in captivity, including a former circus elephant named Stella, now aging and tired. When Stella’s health begins to fail, Ivan promises to do everything in his power to secure a better life for a new arrival, a young orphaned elephant named Ruby.
Ivan’s resourcefulness and commitment to follow through on his promise create a hopeful, warm read. His personality is endearing and one can’t help but feel empathy for Ivan, his friends and their circumstances.
I read this Newberry Medal winner aloud to my older son when he was in second grade. I also have seen older students enjoy reading it independently and in school book clubs.
Mom, which book is next? 