The One and Only Ivan

Similes in Chapters 1–85 of The One and Only Ivan include “as patient as stones,” “like gazelles,” and “like the throaty bark of a dog.”

In The One and Only Ivan, the number twelve is important to Ivan because it represents the age at which a gorilla becomes an adult male. For Ivan, twelve seems to serve as a reminder that he has the...

The setting in "The One and Only Ivan" profoundly impacts the plot by highlighting themes of isolation and desolation. The once-bustling big top mall circus where Ivan lives has become deserted,...

I think the zoo is a better environment for Ivan than his cage at the mall. The zoo gives him more freedom, space, and the possibility of contact with other gorillas. At the mall, he had no way to...

The major theme of this book is animal cruelty. A first example is the fact that these animals are expected to perform tricks for mall visitors all day. A second example is that Ruby is trained using...

A thesis statement for Katherine Applegate's The One and Only Ivan could explore the theme of identity, highlighting Ivan's transformation from a content captive gorilla to realizing his true nature...

The television in Ivan's cage is crucial as it inspires him to take action to fulfill his promise to Stella to help Ruby, the baby elephant. After watching a TV Western, Ivan imagines himself as a...

Mud, or Ivan, does not fully enjoy his life with humans in the circus-themed shopping mall. Although he has adapted to his surroundings, counting 9,855 days since his arrival indicates discontent. He...