If you only read one VRC book this year make it this 2013 Newbery Award-winning book. This is the story of Ivan, a silverback gorilla who has lived for 27 years at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. Ivan lives in a small concrete "cell" next to Stella, an older elephant who has severe problems with her feet. They both interact with Bob, a stray dog who comes and goes as he pleases. Because the book is told from the perspective of Ivan we feel the pain of his confinement and his concern for Stella who is being neglected by the owner of the mall. When a baby elephant named Ruby is added to the menagerie, Ivan and Stella are determined to help her gain her freedom.
This book is sad but sometimes we need to read sad books to understand the world of animals kept in captivity. Everyone should read this book.
This book is sad but sometimes we need to read sad books to understand the world of animals kept in captivity. Everyone should read this book.
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