The story “The One and Only Ivan” is compelling because Katherine Applegate creates characters that have human emotions and characteristics. For instance, Stella cares for Ruby as if she was Ruby’s mother. Furthermore, Stella assures Ruby’s freedom even after her death; as a human mother would. Then, there’s Ivan, a mighty silverback, who lives in denial, thus, avoiding his reality. Consequently, Ivan constantly corrects others who label their habitat a cage or jail. However, after Mack abuses Ruby, Ivan finally accepts that he has been living in a confined habitat. Therefore, Ivan does everything in his power to free Ruby from the horrors of living in a cage. As a result of these enthralling events, readers are “glued” to the story of Ivan
