3 stars
A picture book telling the story of Ivan, how a gorilla became a shopping center attraction and the public’s changing understanding of animals in captivity.
The book goes through some of the main events of Ivan’s story, including some dark times. It touches on various aspects of human treatment of wild animals and the needs of such animals. Heartbreaking at times, it ends in a place of hope and new beginnings.
The backmatter contains some additional information about Ivan as well as a sweet excerpt from one of his keepers at Zoo Atlanta.
A powerful story that shows how organizations and individuals can educate and demand change.