One and Only Bob

Katherine Applegate's many books include the Roscoe Riley Rules chapter book series, the picture book The Buffalo Storm, and the award-winning novel Home of the Brave. With her husband, Michael Grant, she wrote the hugely popular series Animorphs, which has sold more than 35 million copies worldwide.Katherine was inspired to write The One and Only Ivan after reading about the true story of a captive gorilla known as Ivan, the Shopping Mall Gorilla. The real Ivan lived alone in a tiny cage for twenty-seven years at a shopping mall before being moved to Zoo Atlanta after a public outcry. He was a beloved celebrity at the zoo, which houses the nation's largest collection of western lowland gorillas. Ivan was well known for his paintings, which he "signed" with a thumbprint.Katherine lives in California with her husband and two children.

PRAISE FOR THE ONE AND ONLY IVAN: "Beautifully written, intelligent, and brave book … Quite simply, this story is life-changing.” – Patricia MacLachlan, Newbery Medalist"How Ivan confronts his harrowing past yet stays true to his nature exemplifies everything youngsters need to know about courage.” – Starred Review, Kirkus Reviews“The characters will capture readers’ hearts and never let go. A must-have.” – Starred Review, School Library Journal"Discover an animal hero that will take his place with other courageous and beloved animals such as Babe, Mrs. Frisby, Charlotte and Wilbur.” – Shelf Awareness