The One And Only Ivan

The One and Only Ivan

• Genre: Fiction; middle-grade animal fiction
• Originally Published: 2012
• Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 570L; Grades 4-7
• Structure/Length: 153 chapters; approx. 336 pages; approx. 3 hours, 46 minutes on audio
• Protagonist/Central Conflict: The novel is narrated by Ivan, a silverback gorilla living in a small, dismal circus-themed mall. Ivan is content with his routine until the arrival of Ruby, a baby elephant, prompts him to question his captivity and yearn for a better life. Ivan and his friends, including Stella, an elephant, work together to plan their escape to a sanctuary. The central conflict revolves around Ivan’s journey of self-discovery, friendship, and determination to give Ruby a chance at a life free from captivity.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Themes of captivity; animal welfare; friendship challenges; animal abuse and neglect

Katherine Applegate, Author

• Bio: Born 1956; American author known for her books for children and young adults; often explores themes of empathy, kindness, and the human experience in her works; The One and Only Ivan is celebrated for its ability to address complex subjects in an accessible way for young readers; has written across genres and age groups; also known for Crenshaw and other novels that engage young readers with thoughtful stories
• Other Works: Crenshaw (2015); Wishtree (2017); Home of the Brave (2007); The Buffalo Storm (2013); The Truth of Me (2013); Endling: The Last (2018); The One and Only Bob (2020)
• Awards: Newbery Medal (2013)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide:

• The Relationship Between Animals and Humans
• The Transformational Power of Friendship and Loyalty
• The Importance and Challenges of Both Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication

STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Teaching Guide, students will:

• Develop an understanding of the historical and cultural contexts surrounding the care of wild animals that incite Ivan’s conflict.
• Analyze paired texts and other brief resources to make connections via the text’s themes of Human-Animal Relationships, Friendship, and Communication.
• Plan, design, and construct visual media to oppose the poor treatment of Ivan and Ruby based on text details.
• Analyze and evaluate the plot and character details to draw conclusions regarding Ruby, artistry, and other topics in structured essay responses.