um yeah, it's sad!

 When I decided to read The Only and Only Ivan I asked my friend Dolores if the book was sad.  She said no!  She lied!  The book was super sad!  But how could I not think it would be sad because it is about one of those zoo-type attractions that don't care for their animals at all.  I mean, what was I thinking?!?!  Still, even though this was a tough-truth book was very beautiful and well worth the read and the sadness!  Ivan lives in a circus attraction off of a major highway with a stray dog, and an elephant named Stella.  He doesn't remember much about his life before captivity, but he does feel lonely sometimes.  Stella does remember her life before and longs to be free, but pretty much believes she never will be.  One day a baby elephant named Ruby comes to join the show.  Ruby is innocent and sweet and kind and Ivan and Stella are determined to help her not live the trapped life that they have.