This week as part of my Newbery Challenge I read The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate.

This book is the latest winner of the Newbery Medal.

I really enjoyed the story about Ivan the gorilla who is an attraction at a mall and video arcade. The story is told from his perspective.

Ivan is silverback Western Lowland Gorilla and is very large.

There is also an elderly elephant named Stella who performs for the visitors.

Ivan is an artist and they sell his drawings and paintings in the gift shop.

His friend Julia who is the daughter of the janitor brings him paper, crayons and other art supplies.

A new young elephant comes to the mall and arcade as Stella is getting too old and tired to perform. Stella befriends Ruby, but unfortunately Stella passes on. However, before she is gone Stella has Ivan promise he will look after Ruby.

Ivan undertakes a large art project that brings about better conditions for him and Ruby.

Because of Ivan’s actions they soon have a new environment, but I won’t give away the story by giving you the details. I will let you read the book to find out what happens.

The book is based on a true story and is a very enjoyable read.

While I was reading the book at the food court at the mall, a young boy came up to me and told me that he really enjoyed the book. I believe it is a worthy winner of the Newbery Medal.

The animal pictures above are from the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska. The two gorilla pictures are from my post Omaha Gorillas. You can click on the link to find out more about them.

Steven