cover image The One and Only Ivan

The One and Only Ivan

Katherine Applegate, read by Adam Grupper. HarperAudio, unabridged, three CDs, 3 hrs., $13.99 ISBN 978-0-06-228530-0

“Hello, I am Ivan. I am a gorilla. It’s not as easy as it looks.” This is the introduction that readers receive to Ivan, who lives in confinement at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. But Ivan doesn’t mind living there. In fact, he doesn’t miss his previous life in the wild—until a young elephant named Ruby arrives and changes his outlook. Narrator Adam Grupper is gruff in his portrayal of Ivan, capturing the ape’s voice and unique perspective. Although there is no measurable shift in Grupper’s delivery to match the transformation of the book’s protagonist, his approach will delight young listeners. Ages 8–12. A HarperCollins hardcover. (Apr.)