Ivan: The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla

Ivan: The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla recounts the real-life story of a western lowland gorilla captured as an infant in central Africa in 1962. The book follows Ivan's journey from the jungle to an unconventional new home in the United States. For 27 years, Ivan lived in a glass and concrete enclosure at a shopping mall in Tacoma, Washington, where he became known as "The Shopping Mall Gorilla." The narrative tracks his experiences in captivity and the public's growing awareness of his situation. Katherine Applegate presents Ivan's story through straightforward text and illustrations by G. Brian Karas, making complex issues of animal welfare and conservation accessible to young readers. The book explores themes of freedom, belonging, and the responsibility humans have toward the animals in their care.

Readers appreciate the book's accessible portrayal of Ivan's journey for young children while addressing complex themes of animal captivity. Parents and teachers note it helps start conversations about animal welfare and ethics. Liked: - Clear, poetic writing style - G. Brian Karas' illustrations capture Ivan's emotions - Successfully simplifies a difficult topic for ages 4-8 - Includes real photos and facts about Ivan Disliked: - Some found it too sad for very young children - A few readers wanted more details about Ivan's later life - Parents noted needing to explain context about animal treatment Ratings: Goodreads: 4.31/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.8/5 (380+ ratings) From reviews: "Perfect introduction to discussing animal rights with kids" - School librarian on Goodreads "My 5-year-old asked thoughtful questions about zoos after reading" - Parent on Amazon "The sparse text and expressive illustrations work together beautifully" - Elementary teacher review

Owen and Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff, and Paula Kahumbu A baby hippo and an elderly tortoise form an unlikely bond at an animal sanctuary in Kenya.

Nim Chimpsky: The Chimp Who Would Be Human by Elizabeth Hess The life story of a chimpanzee who learned sign language while living with a human family before being relocated to an animal sanctuary.

The One and Only Bob by Katherine Applegate A companion novel to Ivan's story follows a stray dog who lives near the zoo where Ivan resided.

Koko's Kitten by Dr. Penny Patterson The story of a gorilla who communicates through sign language and forms a connection with a small cat.

A Mother's Journey by Sandra Markle The tale of an Emperor penguin's real-life journey across Antarctica to find food for her baby demonstrates the bonds between animals.

🦍 Ivan was a real western lowland gorilla who lived for 27 years in a small enclosure at a shopping mall in Tacoma, Washington, before being moved to Zoo Atlanta in 1994. 📚 Author Katherine Applegate also wrote a fictional novel called "The One and Only Ivan," which won the 2013 Newbery Medal and was adapted into a Disney+ film. 🎨 The book's illustrator, G. Brian Karas, created the artwork using a combination of pencil, gouache, and acrylic paints to capture Ivan's gentle personality and complex emotions. 🌟 The real Ivan became an accomplished artist who created paintings that were sold in the gift shop of the B&I Shopping Center where he lived. His artwork helped raise awareness about his situation. 🦍 After moving to Zoo Atlanta, Ivan lived there for 18 years until his death in 2012 at age 50. He became a beloved ambassador for his species and helped educate people about gorilla conservation.