One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

Katherine Applegate's book One and Only Ivan is a great book. I have seen the book many times at book fairs and finally took it upon myself to buy this. Well it helped that it was buy one book and get one free. I know you don't judge a book by the cover. I did that and so regret it. Ivan is the main character of the story. He is a gorilla who lives in an exhibit that helps his owner make money. Ivan becomes friends with Stella an elephant, Bob a homeless dog, and Julia a young girl who comes to the exhibit because her dad George works there. The story is about Ivan who has no recollection of his life as a child, but is unsure about being animal or human. He is a side show for Mack his owner. He doesn't seem to be pulling in money like he use to so Mack buys a baby elephant named Ruby. Ruby is unsure of what to think but learns to become friends with everyone and Stella takes Ruby on as family. As time goes on a tradegy happens and everyone tries to figure out how to overcome it. Ivan makes a promise and hopes to be able to keep it. Will Ivan figure out if he is more human or animal? Will Ivan be able to keep his promise? Read this and you will find out all the answers. I would definitely recommend this Newberry Medal winner. Katherine Applegate's story of these animals is very touching. If you like books about animals and how they can overcome things, this is the book for you.