The One and Only Ivan is a novel by Katherine Applegate, inspired by the true story of a captive gorilla named Ivan who lived in a shopping mall. Told from Ivan’s perspective, the story follows his life in a cage, his friendships with a dog (Bob) and an elephant (Stella), and his eventual realization that he and the other animals deserve a better life, leading him to use his art to help them escape to a sanctuary. The book is celebrated for its poignant themes of friendship, art, and hope,