3. Junior Readers (9-10 years old)4. Pre-teen Readers (11-12 years old)
Preview: Ivan, a silverback gorilla, lives in a shopping mall exhibit with his friends Stella the elephant and Bob the stray dog. When a baby elephant named Ruby arrives, Ivan makes a promise to protect her—but can a captive gorilla truly change their fate? This heartwarming tale explores friendship, freedom, and the power of art.
Perfect for readers, who:
• Enjoy animal protagonists and emotional storytelling
• Like Charlotte's Web or The One and Only Bob
• Want a touching story with themes of hope and resilience
Why You'll Love It: ✅ Ivan’s unique first-person perspective brings humor and depth ✅ Short chapters and sparse, poetic prose make it highly readable ✅ Sparks meaningful conversations about animal rights and empathy
Also consider the below aspects before you select: ❌ Some sad moments involving animal captivity ❌ Mature themes may require discussion for sensitive readers
Verdict: A Newbery Medal-winning masterpiece that will make you cheer for Ivan’s big heart!
