Characters
Who is the baby elephant that comes to live at the mall with Ivan?
Ruby
Where does Ivan live for most of the story?
In a cage/domain at a mall
Who wrote The One and Only Ivan?
Katherine Applegate
What kind of animal is Ivan?
A gorilla
What type of gorilla is Ivan?
A silverback gorilla
What kind of animal is Bob?
Dog
What new arrival makes Ivan want to change his life?
Ruby the baby elephant
What inspired Katherine Applegate to write The One and Only Ivan?
The true story of a real gorilla named Ivan who lived in a shopping mall
What item does Ivan often use to express himself?
Crayons or paint
What is one of Ivan’s favorite activities?
Drawing or painting
Where does Bob like to sleep?
Ivan's belly
What promise does Ivan make to Stella before she dies?
To take care of Ruby
What is another book Katherine Applegate wrote about animals?
The One and Only Bob or The One and Only Ruby
What is the FULL name of the mall where Ivan lives?
The Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade
Why does Ivan call himself the “Mighty Silverback”?
Because he’s the protector and leader, like in the wild
Who is Julia’s dad and what is his job?
George, the mall cleaner
How does Ivan tell humans that Ruby needs a better life?
Ivan tells humans Ruby needs a better life by painting a large billboard of Ruby at the zoo, which is then secretly displayed on a highway billboard by Julia and her father.
In what year was The One and Only Ivan first published?
2012
What kind of story is The One and Only Ivan — fiction or nonfiction?
Fiction, but based on a true story
What does Ivan remember about his life before the mall?
Ivan remember his past, he recalls living in the jungle with his family, being captured by humans, and losing his twin sister, Tag.
What does Julia do that helps Ivan with his big plan?
She gives him paper and crayons/paints so he can draw and make the message to save Ruby
What happens to Ivan and Ruby at the end of the story?
They are rescued and moved to a zoo where they live happier lives
Which major award did the book win?
The Newbery Medal (in 2013)
What message or theme does the story teach readers?
Friendship, kindness, courage, or speaking up for what’s right
How does Ivan change from the beginning to the end of the story?
He goes from being quiet and hopeless to brave and caring, fighting for Ruby’s freedom