Ivan The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla — Content Guide for Parents
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Religious themes
PRESENTContains references to prayer and church attendance. A minister character plays a supporting role in two chapters.
About this book
In a spare, powerful text and evocative illustrations, the Newbery medalist Katherine Applegate and the artist G. Brian Karas present the extraordinary real story of a special gorilla.
Captured as a baby, Ivan was brought to a Tacoma, Washington, mall to attract shoppers. Gradually, public pressure built until a better way of life for Ivan was found at Zoo Atlanta.
From the Congo to America, and from a local business attraction to a national symbol of animal welfare, Ivan the Shopping Mall Gorilla traveled an astonishing distance in miles and in impact.
This is his true story and includes photographs of Ivan in the back matter.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ivan The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book includes references to violence in the context of Ivan's capture by poachers, as well as the death of another young gorilla shortly after arrival. These elements are presented as part of Ivan's backstory and the injustices faced by animals. No genuinely frightening content is present in the book. While the story includes themes of captivity and loss, it is presented in a way that is suitable for children and does not induce fear.
Does Ivan The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla have violence?
The book includes references to violence in the context of Ivan's capture by poachers, as well as the death of another young gorilla shortly after arrival. These elements are presented as part of Ivan's backstory and the injustices faced by animals.
Does Ivan The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla have scary content?
No genuinely frightening content is present in the book. While the story includes themes of captivity and loss, it is presented in a way that is suitable for children and does not induce fear.
Does Ivan The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla have religious themes?
No religious content in the book itself. The story revolves around the life of a gorilla and does not include any religious practices, beliefs, or ceremonies.
Does Ivan The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla have racial/cultural content?
Race is not a central theme in the book. The narrative focuses on the life of Ivan the gorilla and does not address issues of race or racism.
Does Ivan The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla have profanity?
No profanity is present in the book. The language used is appropriate for the target audience of young readers.
Does Ivan The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla have climate change?
The book touches on themes related to animal welfare and captivity, highlighting the need for better treatment of animals and the environmental impact of such practices. It encourages discussions about our relationship with animals and nature.
Does Ivan The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla have sexual identity?
No sexual content is present in the book. The story is focused on Ivan's life and experiences as a gorilla, with no references to sexual themes or content.
Does Ivan The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla have gender roles?
The book does not actively discuss or critique gender roles. It focuses on Ivan's story without delving into themes related to gender expectations or roles.
Does Ivan The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla have lgbtq+ themes?
No LGBTQ+ themes present in the book. The narrative focuses on the true story of a gorilla named Ivan and his experiences, without any mention of LGBTQ+ characters or themes.
