The One and Only Ivan

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate


Applegate personifies a great silverback gorilla who lives as an entertainer in a mall. She doesn't go so far as to write a book that embraces anthropomorphism. (Huzzah!) It's a fictionalized story of animal entertainers. They tell their stories in their words and interact with humans with touches, looks, and art. It's very well done. Listeners (and readers) will befriend these circus animals, root for them, cry for them, and rejoice with them. Ivan's tale also lends itself well to many research projects for students (and animal lovers).

Adam Grupper narrates Ivan's story. Grupper is a new name to me ears. With his gruff, deep voice that kept going and going, it took me a bit to remain with the story. I was surprised and taken aback with the introductions of each new character voice. Grupper did a fabulous job! The gruff, deep voice suits the old silverback, Ivan. His female characters sound great and he adds zing to Bob and Mack. It's a great listen.


Reviewed from a library copy.


Audio Book Details...
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
Read by Adam Grupper
Produced by Harper Audio
Number of Discs: 3
Total Time: 3 hours
ISBN: 9780062285300