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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
The One and Only Ivan summary
Katherine Applegate
Brief summary
The One and Only Ivan tells the remarkable true story of Ivan, a gorilla kept in captivity at a shopping mall. This heartwarming tale explores friendship, freedom, and the power of hope, reminding readers of the beauty of compassion and the importance of standing up for what is right.
Table of Contents
The One and Only Ivan
Summary of key ideas
A Heartwarming Journey of Friendship
In The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, we begin our journey with Ivan, a silverback gorilla held captive in a shopping mall. Ivan, initially comfortable with his life, spends his days entertaining mall visitors and his nights painting. He shares his space with an old circus elephant named Stella, and they develop a sibling-like bond, providing each other companionship in their shared solitude.
However, Ivan's perspective of his life changes with the arrival of Ruby, a baby elephant brought in to fill the void left by Stella's death. This change sparks a sense of purpose in Ivan, prompting him to reconsider their living conditions. While he had previously accepted their fate in captivity, he now desires freedom for himself and Ruby.
Unlikely Heroes and Unbreakable Bonds
In the middle of the story, we see Ivan setting on a path of self-discovery and transformation. He begins to tap into his natural instincts as a gorilla, which he had long forgotten in his comfortable mall-bound existence. The arrival of Ruby ignites Ivan's protective nature, and he vows to save Ruby from their confined life. In this undertaking, Ivan is aided by Julia, the daughter of the mall's janitor, who recognizes Ivan's intelligent and kind-hearted nature.
As the story progresses, we witness their plan gradually unfold. Ivan uses his painting skill to convey the message of their desire for freedom. Julia, recognizing the plea in Ivan's paintings, aids in bringing their plight to the public's attention, further fuelling Ivan's hope for a better future.
A Fight for Freedom and a Place Called Home
The climax of the story comes when the public is made aware of Ivan and Ruby's plight. Encouraged by the public's response, Ivan devises a plan to escape. His unyielding spirit, coupled with the support of his unexpected human ally, Julia, leads to an elaborate, yet successful escape plan.
This escape is a significant turning point in Ivan's life. His perseverance and courage not only ensure Ruby's freedom but also pave the way for his own liberation. In the end, Ivan and Ruby are relocated to a zoo, a much-more suitable environment which gives them the freedom and companionship they crave.
The Power of Hope and Resilience
In The One and Only Ivan, Katherine Applegate tells an inspiring story about friendship, hope, and the power of resilience. Ivan's journey from passive acceptance to active resistance against his captive conditions serves as a testament to his character growth throughout the story. His compassionate nature and selfless decision to risk his comfortable life for Ruby's freedom are key aspects of his transformation.
The novel concludes on a hopeful note, offering readers a warm, yet impactful insight into animals' emotions and intellect, and subtly advocating for animal rights. With its unique narrative style, Applegate draws us into a remarkable story, challenging readers to look beyond their preconceived notions of animal intelligence and capacity for emotions.
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What is The One and Only Ivan about?
The One and Only Ivan is a heartwarming novel about a silverback gorilla named Ivan who lives in a shopping mall. Through Ivan's unique perspective, the book explores themes of friendship, freedom, and the power of imagination. It is a touching story that will make you rethink the way we treat animals and the importance of empathy.
The One and Only Ivan Review
The One and Only Ivan (2012) is a heartwarming book that explores the power of friendship, hope, and the importance of freedom. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:
- Based on a true story, it offers a unique and captivating perspective on the inner life of a gorilla, allowing readers to connect with the emotions and experiences of animals.
- With its beautifully crafted characters and thought-provoking themes, the book delivers a powerful message about compassion and the need for empathy in our society.
- The author skillfully weaves together humor and heartbreak, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
Who should read The One and Only Ivan?
- Animal lovers who enjoy heartwarming and emotionally impactful stories
- Young readers who are interested in themes of friendship, empathy, and the power of hope
- Parents and educators looking for a book that teaches important life lessons in a relatable and accessible way
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The One and Only Ivan FAQs
What is the main message of The One and Only Ivan?
The main message of The One and Only Ivan is the power of friendship, empathy, and the importance of fighting for what is right.
How long does it take to read The One and Only Ivan?
The reading time for The One and Only Ivan varies from person to person. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The One and Only Ivan a good book? Is it worth reading?
The One and Only Ivan is a heartwarming and thought-provoking book that is definitely worth reading. It offers a unique perspective on friendship and the importance of empathy.
Who is the author of The One and Only Ivan?
The author of The One and Only Ivan is Katherine Applegate.
What to read after The One and Only Ivan?
If you're wondering what to read next after The One and Only Ivan, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- How Children Succeed by Paul Tough
- Becoming Attached by Robert Karen
- All Joy and No Fun by Jennifer Senior
- The Opposite of Spoiled by Ron Lieber
- Minimalist Parenting by Christine Koh and Asha Dornfest
- Moms Mean Business by Erin Baebler and Lara Galloway
- Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua
- Screamfree Parenting by Hal Edward Runkel
- Getting to 50/50 by Sharon Meers and Joanna Strober
- The Drama of the Gifted Child by Alice Miller